A CHARITABLE donation will herald a new chapter in the story of a school library.

Bearpark Primary School, in Bearpark, near Durham has received a £235 donation from the village’s Co-op store to spend on new books for its library.

Head teacher Jill Hodgson said: “It’s fantastic for us. We’ve got quite a large library and we hope to increase library use.”

Co-op staff raised the money in store and are now collecting cash to pay for a school trip.

The donation comes at an important time for the school, as it prepares to welcome two-year-olds for the first time this September.

It was rated as “good” by school inspectors Ofsted last month, with behaviour and safety described as outstanding – the top ranking available.

Mrs Hodgson said: “The inspection judgement is testimony to the effort and dedication of fantastic staff, children and governors.

“We are constantly striving to improve. The school is at the heart of the community.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support and look forward to securing an outstanding judgement in the future.”