FUNDRAISERS will soon be stepping into tuxedos to boost funds for a hydrotherapy pool.

Maplewood School, in Cressex, High Wycombe, for pupils with learning disabilities, will be holding a Black Tie Ball to raise money for its Hydrotherapy Pool Appeal launched last year. The school needs to raise £500,000.

A series of events have already taken place including, a 60s and 70s night last month which the appeal mascot and Maplewood School pupil Joshua, seven, attended with his dad David.

The guest of honour at the ball will be GMTV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who is patron of the charity.

Many pupils at the school have sensory and physical disabilities, as well as learning difficulties and a purpose-built heated pool will be an excellent environment for pupils to work hard on their swimming and physiotherapy programmes.

Hazel Howe, chairman of the Parents, Staff and Friends Association, said: "A local leisure centre pool can be quite noisy and frightening, especially for some of our younger pupils.

"The water is often too cold for more physically disabled pupils in terms of relaxing muscles and allowing them to exercise limbs for greater movement."

The appeal has already raised thousands of pounds but the school is still a long way off their total.

The ball takes place on May 12, and tickets priced £50, include a three-course meal and a good night out.

For tickets or to make a donation to the charity call Hazel on (01628) 521115 or Gay Phillips on (0207) 827 7010