Queen legend visits Enfield school (From Enfield Independent)

Queen legend Brian May and former EastEnders actress Anita Dobson visit Enfield school

4:02pm Tuesday 15th February 2011 in Education News By Elizabeth Pears

QUEEN legend Brian May and his wife Anita Dobson of EastEnders fame made a special visit to an Enfield school to present them with a much-needed minibus.

The rock star and Ms Dobson, best known for her role as Dirty Den's wife Angie, are sponsors of The Variety Club Children's Charity, whose mission is to improve the lives of sick, disabled and disadvantaged young people.

West Lea Special School, in Haselbury Road, in Edmonton, was "absolutely delighted" with the specially-adapted "Sunshine Coach" which will mean more school trips for its 110 pupils aged between four and 19.

Headteacher Sue Tripp said: "Our pupils have learning difficulties, complex needs and some have physical disabilities. We rely heavily on our minibuses and this brand new 17-seater with wheelchair access is just what we need to replace one of our older models.

"It is so generous and we are absolutely delighted that both Brian and Anita are making the presentation. The children are thrilled."

The school uses the minibuses constantly as well as for week-long trips to Wales, France or Spain.

Developing supervised breaks is an important part of the school’s policy introducing pupils to new experiences and ideas, the school said.

Ms Tripp added: "I am determined that they should all learn through these trips, go to college and get a job and we cannot underestimate how useful the new coach will be."

Councillor Ayfer Orhan, Enfield Council cabinet member for schools and children's services, said: "The school is achieving very high standards and having the ability to take its pupils out is a vital part of building their confidence and learning.

"On behalf of the council I want to thank Brian and Anita for supporting West Lea in this very practical way."