A garden playground to ensure the memory of Timmy Barry lives on has received thousands of pounds in donations.

The desolate, run-down play area at Hillside Special School, Portslade, is to be transformed into a colourful, interactive environment thanks to more than £5,000 of donations.

It will not only act as a celebration of ten-year-old Timmy, who was swept out to sea and drowned while out walking with his carer, but will also benefit other children at the school where he was a pupil.

Hillside's headteacher, Bob Wall, said: "There could be no finer memorial to a happy and lively young boy whose life was cut short.

"The response has been brilliant. At the moment the area is pretty much wasteland so it will mean a huge amount for children to be able to spend their break times in such a positive environment.

The school and Friends of Hillside group have spent much time and energy on enhancing play activities and now the hard work has paid off.

The committee is due to meet tomorrow to start buying equipment to include a slide, gazebo and a tree-lined walk with a rainbow-coloured path.

Residents and businesses have pledged their support in creating a memorial to Timmy, including Brighton-based digital print specialist XPS, which donated £1,000.

Timmy's parents are due to complete a sponsored walk in memory of their son on May 19.

Anyone who would like to sponsor them or make a donation to the appeal should make cheques payable to the Friends of the Hillside School and send them to the school in Foredown Road, Portslade, BN41 2FU or call 01273 416979.