Charity carol concert for arson-hit primary school

The concert, featuring Christmas carols performed by Wolverhampton Council Choir and Wolverhampton Music Service, will take place near the cafe in the Civic Centre on Wednesday between 12pm and 1pm.

All are welcome and entry is free but a collection will also be held in aid of Merridale Primary School.

The school was recently targeted by arsonists and a wooden hut which was due to become a Christmas grotto was burnt to the ground.

The building was also used for forest school activities for nursery and reception pupils.

Simon Lane, Merridale headteacher, said: "Merridale Primary is passionate about learning outdoors and enjoying nature. Our forest school area and classroom has been developed over the last 10 years into an unique, educational space which is used weekly by our youngest children in nursery and reception to provide enriching activities.

“Due to the acts of mindless vandals, this can no longer happen, leaving children and staff devastated. Please help us to raise money to re-develop and re-build this special place for our children."

Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for education and skills, added: "This is a great opportunity for people to get into the festive spirit and enjoy a carol concert in the company of our fantastic choir and Music Service.

“At the same time, there will be an opportunity for members of the audience to make a small donation to a collection and help bring some Christmas cheer to pupils and teachers at Merridale Primary School."

Merridale Primary School has launched a fundraising campaign to pay for a new building and anyone interested in donating can visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/merridale-primary-1.