Coronation Street star Bill Tarmey started the ball rolling when he presented the keys for a new mini-bus to teachers and youngsters at Loushers Lane School.

And playtime was transformed this week with the launch of a innovative new toy library on Tuesday - which older pupils will soon help to manage.

Headteacher Christine Fleming, who helped staff, parents and governors test out the new toys, said: "It is going down really well. Parents think it is a wonderful idea.

"It is being run by volunteers at the moment but we hope older pupils will be involved in time."

The initiative was suggested by Beppi Grace, co-ordinator of the Play and Leisure Resource group, who enlisted the help of four children and volunteers to stock the library.

Encouraging people to support the fledgling library, Beppi told the GUARDIAN: "This is only the start - we have got 40 toys and we need far more."

All toys and games are designed to encourage youngsters to develop new skills - while being educuation but fun.

Added Beppi: "Children learn better if they are doing something which provides some fun as well."

Items can be borrowed for a small charge so parents can effectively try before they buy.

Meanwhile a mammoth effort by staff at Air 2000, who raised £50,000 by selling gold hearts during their flights, contributed towards the new minibus.

Presented by TV's Jack Duckworth on behalf of the Variety Club of Great Britain, the new wheels have already been put to good use for school trips.

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