LOTTERY bosses have pumped £31,600 into two special needs projects benefiting children and parents in the Romsey area.

Baden-Powell Way-based Acorns Out of School Club has been awarded £20,000 and the Romsey Out of School Club--a project run by the community offices at both the Mountbatten and Romsey Schools--has received a £11,600 windfall.

Acorns Out of School Club caters for special needs children during school holidays and other days throughout the year. Eighteen buddy-helpers give one-to-one care.

Group co-ordinator, Karen Dunleavey, said: "I am thrilled we have got the money. We are hoping to set up a Saturday morning club. It will help provide new games, craft materials and other equipment. It will also help pay for outings. This is very good news.

"I am extremely pleased we got the whole amount we asked for. The money will not cover running costs for the whole year, but it will cover the cost of childcare for a while. The children deserve it. We need as much help as we can get. Test Valley Borough Council officers have been very supportive, particularly Tony Bostock."

Romsey Out of School Club provides after school care at Romsey School and holiday care at Mountbatten School.