A FUNDRAISER has been set up to help schools devastated by flooding in Horwich to help them recover.

On May 16 heavy rains led to extensive flooding which caused significant damage at several schools in the area.

Chorley New Road Primary School, St Josephs Secondary School and St Mary's RC Primary School all had to close while clean ups took place.

The community has now come together to raise money for the schools, to put towards costs not covered by insurance.

Cllr David Grant said: "Children have been home schooling for nearly 18 months now, they've not been able to see their friends and have face-to face learning.

"It's been very tough for parents too and for teachers working virtually.

"They needed to get back to normality but the flooding has disrupted their learning again, and insurance cannot replace everything at the schools - things like teaching aids and the children's work.

"We wanted to help by making a donation which can go towards replacing some of these items.

"In the aftermath of the flooding the community has rallied around to help everyone, there's a real community spirit.

"We've already reached a third of our goal - we've made sure we didn't set a huge amount as people have been affected by the flooding financially."

A £1,000 target has been set and so far nearly £300 has been raised to help the three schools.

Tony McCabe, headteacher at St Joseph's RC High School, said: "We are humbled that the community have been so supportive during our recent floods.

"The offers of help have been heart-warming. In a year where students have missed so much, the floods couldn't have come at a worse time.

"But hard times build resilience and the encouragement form the community has helped improve the lives of young people at this time. We are immensely grateful."

You can donate to the fundraiser here.