A VITAL part of Cockermouth School has been revamped and reinvigorated following a donation from a local businessman.

The inclusion centre has been moved into what used to be the caretaker's bungalow. It provides emotional and practical support to those who may be struggling with mental health issues or perhaps going through an unsettling period at home or in school.

Approximately 50 students use it every day - before, during and after school hours. Some even have breakfast with members of staff who manage the centre.

The work has been done following a donation from Dobie's Charitable Trust.

Bill Dobie, who officially opened the centre this week, said: "I wasn't aware until I spoke to the head teacher Rob Petrie that a small number of the children have very difficult social issues.

"I'm a great believer that everyone - whether you are an executive or a road sweeper - makes a contribution to society and deserves support.

"This is such a wonderful thing to have. Every child occasionally needs an arm around them and some emotional support.

"I'm so chuffed to be involved.

"I was very happy to put in a five-figure sum and delighted that the contractors, RTE Ltd and Andrew Skillen, did the work on a cost basis."

Four members of staff, including counsellor Jo Hampson, work in the centre.

Welfare manager Gill Todhunter said: "The students can have some time out or catch up on lessons in the centre. They can have lunch and some social time.

"Some students might come for breakfast in the morning. We can help them organise their books, timetables and PE kit."

Kate Mitchinson, inclusion officer, said: "Some children might have medical conditions or anxiety. Others might have bereavements and would like some time out, some are working on reduced timetables."

The centre is also used by transgender pupils that might like some support.

"Mental health is hugely important, the school offers lots of support and can work with other agencies," said Mrs Todhunter.

"We have some really proactive staff and pupils who have done mental health first aid training. There's still a bit to do, this is a work in progress, but it's happening.

"It's a huge comfort to the children to know it's here."

Dr Petrie said: "The school is passionate about the principles of inclusion. We believe it's our duty to work with every single student.

"We have an amazing team in the inclusion centre, day in, day out, they do an incredible job supporting our most vulnerable and deprived students.

"Bill Dobie's financial support has enabled us to remodel the centre, providing somewhere that pupils can feel safe, secure and supported.

"This may not make a difference to our place in the league tables or an Ofsted report but it will make a massive difference to the life chances of our students."