VERWOOD First Pre-school has launched its new Funbrella Fund, to build an all-weather play area.

The pre-school started the campaign with a day of wet activities, when staff and children donned their waterproofs and raised their umbrellas to splash in the puddles and threw wet sponges at play leader Chris Branscombe.

The pre-school is raising funds to build a large outdoor canopy so that they can play outside in all weathers.

Pre-school administrator Gilli Graves said: “The pre-school has a lovely outside space which has so much to offer, but play is currently limited by the weather.

“The outdoor covered area will be attached to the building so there is direct access from the indoors to the outdoors and will provide shelter from both the rain and the sun, allowing the children to play and explore regardless of what the weather is doing.”

The pre-school, which is a registered charity, is aiming to raise £10,000, and has raised almost £3,000 so far, which includes £1,000 from Verwood Town Council.

The next fundraising event will be a quiz night on Friday, March 21, in St Michael's Parish Rooms. Everyone is welcome. Look out for details on posters soon.