Inflatable grotto helps students meet Santa after school arson attack
Pupils who were left saddened after vandals burned down a forest school had their Christmas saved thanks to a generous gesture.
Children at Merridale Primary School in Pennfields, Wolverhampton, were left upset after the arson attack on December 4.
The "forest school" facility, which was used regularly by students, was due to be used as Santa's Grotto but was completely destroyed by the fire.
But a bouncy castle-hire company, Bouncy Bouncy Boo Castle Hire, stepped forward to save the school's festive event.
Mitchell Tooth, who runs the Wolverhampton-based firm, spotted the story about the fire in the Express & Star and decided to act.
Mr Tooth said: "I couldn't believe that anyone would deliberately burn down part of a primary school.
"Reading about the crime felt like a punch in the gut. I can't imagine how people who work or send their children there must feel.
"I just had to do something.
"I was overwhelmed by how grateful the staff were with our donation of the inflatable Santa's Grotto.
"Every teacher came up to me to thank me, but seeing the smiles on the children was thanks enough."
The grotto was installed on December 18, allowing enough time for the pupils to meet Father Christmas before the big day.
Headteacher Simon Lane said: "Thanks to Bouncy Bouncy Boo for donating the hire of their inflatable Santa's Grotto this week. Our children and families loved visiting Santa in there.
"We were thrilled to accept this kind donation. We want to say a big thank you for getting in touch and helping us out.
"The grotto looked fantastic.”
Anyone interested in helping the school build a new forest area can call 01902 558760.
