A GROUP of parents in Royston want to set up a club for children with special needs. The parents believe there is little provision in the town for their children to interact socially with their peers. Linda Hall, one of the organisers, said they were insp

A GROUP of parents in Royston want to set up a club for children with special needs.

The parents believe there is little provision in the town for their children to interact socially with their peers.

Linda Hall, one of the organisers, said they were inspired to create the group after attending a civic reception at the town hall.

She said: "I went along with a friend and her four sons, the youngest of whom has Downs Syndrome, as representatives of Royston Mencap.

"We wanted to find out what was being done in Royston for children with special needs.

"We spoke to a lot of people, including councillors and the town centre manager, and they were as helpful as they could be.

"However, the answer we kept getting was that nothing is being done, so we decided to set up a group ourselves."

A group which caters for children over 15 meets at Meridian School Youth Club every second Tuesday.

However, the parents want to provide something for children below this age.

Linda, who has four daughters, one of whom has autism, said: "We are not asking for someone to look after our children.

"What we want is the facility to give these children an outlet where they can build up a social network and gain self confidence in the process.

"I want to hear from any interested parents or carers. Once we have a better idea of numbers, we can take the next step."

Anyone interested in being part of the group should contact Linda on 01763 220721 or 07767 847796, or Kara Crossman on 01763 220971.