CHILDREN at a Hampshire pre-school are scaling new heights - thanks to a £5,000 donation.

Youngsters at the Marchwood-based Mulberry group are using a climbing tower, a slide and other play facilities following a grant from the Barker-Mill Foundation (BMF).

Some of the money will be used to help convert the pre-school's other outdoor area into a learning space with a mud kitchen, bug hotel and vegetable patch.

Manager Wendy Precious said: "The new climbing tower and slide will benefit the children greatly. We didn't have anything like this and I know they've been extremely excited about it.

"This will give them the opportunity to access the outdoor area and enhance their learning while enjoying themselves in the fresh air.

“The aim is to have somewhere we can use all year round to teach the children about nature. We cannot expect the next generation to look after our planet if they are not taught about nature."

BMF trustee Tim Jobling visited the pre-school to view the new equipment and perform the opening ceremony.

He said: “It was a pleasure to see how our donation has been used and learn more about how it will benefit the children. To see them smiling and enjoying their new play facilities was wonderful.”

The BMF was launched in 1995 using funds provided by the Barker-Mill family in memory of their late father and grandfather, Peter Barker-Mill.

Previously known as the Peter Barker-Mill Memorial Charity, the BMF helps schools, charities and other good causes and has so far donated more than £3 million.

Grants are given out in areas where the Barker-Mill family has owned land for generations including the New Forest and the Test Valley.

Anyone wishing to apply for a BMF grant should go online and visit barkermillfoundation.com/apply.