The Gatehouse Primary Academy is to receive £500 from Dawlish Town Council to help buy computer equipment for children having to learn at home during lockdown.

The school's PTA had applied for £250 towards the £1,600 cost of 20 tablets.

But at their meeting yesterday evening (Wednesday, January 27), the councillors unanimously agreed to double the amount and award a grant of £500.

It followed a similar decision by the Finance and General Purposes Committee last week. After they decided to award Westcliff Primary Academy PTA £500 rather than the £250 it had requested, Cllr Martin Wrigley suggested doing the same for Gatehouse.

The councillors all felt it was vital to support local education, particularly following yesterday's announcement that the lockdown closure of schools is being extended until March.

Cllr Gary Taylor said: "Just as we're going into doubling down on lockdown, it's great that Dawlish Town Council are on the front foot with this and doubling up from £250 to £500, I think it's an excellent suggestion from Cllr Wrigley.

"I hope we see requests from other schools where they have the financial need to support their pupils too, from across the parish.

"It's very, very important. This is such a trying time for parents trying to cope with teaching at home and any help that we can give them I'm sure will be very much appreciated."

Community rallies to help schools

Local businesses, charities and individuals have also stepped in to help the schools provide equipment for children having to learn at home.

The Westcliff Primary Academy PTA has posted on Facebook to thank all those who've donated money towards the computer devices.

The businesses include The Boathouse, Lady's Mile, the Smugglers Inn, the Brunswick Arms, FACE Electrical and Pizza Palos.