We have launched the Challenge Wear1 project with the aim to transform the dream vision of children at a special school into a reality.

Pupils at Barbara Priestman School have drawn up their dream playground. The Wear1 Fund has already given £10,000 to the project.

Other companies have pledged support, but more help is needed.

But there is still a way to go, and the campaign needs the help and support of businesses, groups and individuals who can donate materials, services and equipment.

Echo editor Rob Lawson: “I hope with so many kind-hearted, community-minded people in Sunderland we will be able to see something really special done for the children at Barbara Priestman School.”

How you can help

If you can help out with the Barbara Priestman School ground project by providing any of these items or materials, please contact Maureen Scott on (0191) 501 7144.

Any amount of materials would be welcome.

All supporters will see their names on a Wear1 roll of honour.

FOR BUSINESSES:
Timber decking, – 72m2<
Round-log edging (600mm high) – 45m
Play shop
Coloured perspex in timber frame
Post box
Bench seating
Recycling bins
Wooden table
Picnic table
Timber shed
Plants
Paving (450 x 450)  885m2
Tactile Paving, 114m2
Rubberised surface – 101m2
Pin kerbs – 1,378m
Keyblok paving – 551m2
Macadam – 845m2
Pin Kerbs – 1,378m

FOR INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS:
Plants
Wooden table
Picnic table
Composter
Rotary washing line
Bird table

Budding artists have a new chance to show their work as an up-and-coming city boutique opens Wearside’s latest gallery.

Artistic entrepreneur Beth Bell set up vintage clothing shop Shambles in Derwent Street, Park Lane, last November to offer clothing and accessories to customers looking for something different.

Now the 22-year-old has opened up the back of her shop to display artwork and photographs created by students and other up-and-coming artists in the city.

Beth, from East Shore Village, Seaham, said: "There’s not a lot of opportunity for students and new artists in Sunderland the way there is in other places.

"We had the space at the back of the shop and just wanted to give them that opportunity."

Beth said her clothing and accessories range is aimed at people who want something unique, and it’s the same with the art displayed in the shop.

"We had quite a lot of pop art and abstract paintings. There’s also photos of bands that have played in the area.

"There’s some really good shots that have gone down quite well.

"We offer something a bit different and also support local artists and designers.

"Some of the work looks really good and you’re buying something now from someone who is just starting out, but in a few years’ time might be the next Stella McCartney or Andy Warhol."

She added: "We’ve sold a few bits and bobs already and we’re looking for more artists who want to display their work."

For more information contact the shop on 0191 565 9644 or visit http://www.myspace.com/shamblesvintageboutique

Pictured top right: Beth Bell in the gallery at her vintage clothing shop Shambles