A SENSORY room has been opened at a north Durham nursery.

Beechdale Nursery School in Consett hopes the new facility will be especially useful to its children with special needs.

It was officially unveiled today (Friday, February 27) by Durham County Councillor Alex Watson, who is chairman of governors.

The room is designed to help develop youngsters’ senses through the use of lighting, music and objects.

Cllr Watson said: “The new sensory room is very exciting and extremely important to schools who have special needs children, but any child can experience it.

“It helps to create a relaxing, calming environment while developing a wide range of important life skills by promoting a feeling of well being.

“Unfortunately they are not always provided by the local educational authority which meant Beechdale Nursery had to fund it themselves partly by money raised during the special educational needs Christmas fundraiser by parents and Friends of Beechdale Nursery, various functions and prudent housekeeping.

“As chairman of Beechdale, along with headteacher Julia Graham and staff we are all extremely proud to have accomplished and have developed this fantastic much needed facility for the school and give our immense thanks to all who have given support to make this possible.”