Children who use Elmer’s Room, the special needs unit at Port St Mary Primary School, are enjoying a much improved outdoor area after two local businesses joined together to give the playground a makeover. RBS International employee Sarah Kneale nominated the school as part of the Bank’s ‘Get Your Hands Dirty’ project which aims to transform neglected spaces into great places for primary schools, charities and community groups. Sarah and a team of 14 employees set about raising ?1,500 to fund the project. The team then created an eye catching mural on a fence to brighten up the children’s play area. A team from facilities management company Prospero also joined in the effort and helped to build a sandpit and planter for the school to enjoy. Carole Williams of Elmer’s Room, commented: “The team from RBS International came equipped with paint brushes and enthusiasm and they really got stuck into bringing the play area to life with a fantastic mural which tells the children’s story of ‘Elmer’ who the room is named after. The sandpit and planter by the Prospero team is also a welcome edition and the design means that wheelchair users can access the sand too, which is fantastic. The new play area is safe and secure as well as bright and fun to work and play in, so thanks to both teams for their efforts.” John Hunter, Director Bank's and Insurance for RBS International, who participated with the team, added: “The project at Elmer’s Room has been a real team effort and it is encouraging to see employees working together to support a cause close to a colleague’s heart which invests in our community. The mural looks absolutely fantastic, really brightening up the outdoor area and the children at Elmer’s Room also pitched in to help which was great fun for all.” - Ends -