THOUSANDS has been raised for both Larkrise special school and Larkrise community farm for the disabled in Trowbridge after two fundraising events.

Around £2000 was raised by a group of parents and supporters through a sponsored cycle ride at the weekend.

One group of bikers cycled a 20 mile route from the school along the canal and back again, whilst another group went on a 65 mile route from the school to Weymouth.

Parent and chairman of Friends of Larkrise School said: “It was a really great atmosphere, we stopped for a bit of cake half way to keep us going.

“We are so pleased with the amount we raised, we were hoping to get around £1000 but we have beaten the target.”

Two rugby teams are also aiming to raise £4500 to provide specialist equipment for Larkrise community farm for the disabled in Trowbridge.

The teams made up of 25 people of all ages will be heading to Mount Everest for the charity matches later this month.

Each player has raised £10,000, meaning a total of £250,000 will be raised, a portion of which will be donated to Larkrise Community farm for assistive ramps which will help disabled riders to mount the horses.

Justin Swift, chairman of the join county Wooden Spoon team said:”Larkrise is an amazing centre and we were delighted to include fund raising to support their magnificent efforts”.

Larkrise Community Farm, established originally in 1987 has become a major centre for both youngsters and adults, including students in primary and secondary education, children who are home educated and adults with learning difficulties.

The farm manager, Wendy Self, was appointed in 1987 and is dedicated to the huge raft of activities, for which Larkrise Community Farm is renowned.

She said: “It will be superb to have the funding for the mounting ramps.

“We have a wish list for other things, such as a new lambing barn with a built in safety area for student participation and view, a round pen for equine assisted learning sessions, a hard standing in our existing field shelters for easy access for students to muck out in winter.

“Larkrise is a special farm; it brings a sense of well being to all that access it, it’s a sensory adventure.The animals judge no one.”