THE regimental sergeant major from the Army base at Colerne impressed children at the local primary school when he handed over a cheque for £500 last week.

The 21 Signals Air Support Unit enjoys a close relationship with Colerne School and pupils are familiar with the sight of soldiers in uniform coming into classes.

But when RSM Dave Rook and Sgt Roy Parr turned up last week with a drill stick polished specially for the occasion, there were coos of delight all round.

Headteacher Anne Orme said the money would go towards a new ICT suite, which is currently being developed at the village school.

"The money was raised during the base's open day in the summer, which attracts people from far and wide," she said.

"This year they even had the Red Arrows there. The money raised is always distributed between local charities and the school."

She said it was not the first time the unit had helped the school financially.

"We have regular cash injections and we are forever grateful."

The presentation took place in front of the whole school during a special assembly.