Fawley (April 28, 2006) -- A massive fundraising effort by parents and local businesses to equip a large extension at a New Forest school has received a welcome boost from Esso and ExxonMobil Chemical at Fawley.

The Friends of South Baddesley School have received £750 from the company towards their £60,000 target, to fully equip a brand new extension at the village school near Lymington. The building work was paid for separately through the education system but the Friends of the School are seeking to buy vital furniture and equipment for inside, as well as a new playground.

The grant was donated under a special scheme designed to recognise the efforts of ExxonMobil employees and their families who contribute their time, talent and energy to schools, charities and non-profit making organisations.

The treasurer of the Friends of the School, Richard Homan, works in Fawley's Distillation Business Team as the process lead engineer. He has one son at the school, Tom, one who has moved on to secondary school, and a daughter due to start in September.

The scheme not only helps local organisations, but also improves the links between ExxonMobil and the local community.

Richard Homan said: “The roof is already going on the extension but that is by no means the end of the work. We are hoping to raise enough money to buy all the value added equipment for inside the new building, musical instruments, chairs, tables, and educational equipment. We also want to completely refurbish the playground, including an area with a soft surface.

“An auction of promises and a ball will be held in September but we need all the help we can get from local companies and individuals if we are going to reach our target.”

The ExxonMobil Volunteer Involvement Programme has so far contributed around £120,000 to local community projects since it was started three years ago. The company is committed to being a good neighbour and awards a number of grants to local charities, community organisations and schools in the area each year.