Families, staff and friends of a special school will join together in Collett Park, Shepton Mallet, next month to raise money for a new swimming pool.

The sponsored walk in aid of the Mendip School, which is at the Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet, will take place in the park between 11am and 3pm on Sunday September 27 and people can join in at any time, walking as far as they are able. Dogs and buggies are all welcome and the route is fully wheelchair friendly.

All participants are asked to register and raise sponsorship. There will be a goody bag for all participants, and details can be found on the school website at www.themendipschool.com.

When the Mendip School was built in 2015, there was no funding in place to include a swimming pool.

A spokesperson for the school said: "We now have in place planning permission and have launched an appeal to raise £1.1 million to construct a pool.

"For pupils attending our school, swimming is an essential skill for increasing confidence and familiarity with community facilities.

"It encourages access a wider range of activities and venues throughout student's lives, along with providing lifelong health, well-being and personal safety skills."

The special school caters for 141 children from ages four through to 19 with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Speech Language and Communication Needs (SLCN).

The Mendip School is part of the Bath and Mendip Partnership Trust, who opened the school in 2015.

The spokesperson said: "The Mendip School is committed to developing the academic and life skills of all its pupils and students to enable them to lead safe, happy and purposeful lives, contributing economically and socially to their communities.

"Our aim is for our young people to be successful and prepared for their lives beyond school.

"The walk will take place at Collett Park, and we will be at the park café from 11am. We will attempt to walk as many laps as we can at anytime between 11am and 3pm.

"Well behaved dogs and owners are welcome. If you think you may need a break, you can bring a picnic, or purchase snacks and drinks from the café. This is an all weather event – we'll be doing it in waterproofs if that's what it takes."

If you'd like to volunteer on the day or need further information you can contact Lucy Beattie on [email protected] or 07789 934105.