A CENTRE for children with cerebral palsy has been been awarded almost £9,000 by the Co-op Community Fund.

The charity Stick’n’Step provides free conductive education sessions to give them the skills they need to lead independent lives.

Children attend classes at the centre at Tudor Hall on York Street.

Stick ‘n’ Step’s chief executive Amy Couture said: “We would like to say a big thank you to all the local Co-op members who have helped raise this fantastic sum and to Co-op for nominating us as one of their charities.

“The money will enable us to purchase state-of-the-art specialist equipment for our new Runcorn centre and will fund classroom materials to ensure sessions are creative and fun for the children attending.”

Every time members shop at their Co-op stores one per cent of what they spend on own-brand products and services, plus money from plastic carrier bag sales, goes into a community fund.

The total is then divided between nominated charities.

Some of the children who attend the centre and their families joined the charity’s administrator Kelly Marks to visit the Co-op on Granville Street, in Runcorn, to receive the gift from store manager Robbie Johnson and staff member Jane Hollister.

The Duchess of Gloucester opened the centre last October.

Facilities include a state-of-the-art sensory room and a  large classroom with specialist equipment.

The charity's support improves mobility, independence, and boosts self confidence, enabling every child to reach their personal potential.

Anyone interested in helping Stick ‘n’ Step can call the centre on 01928 573777.