A bank has given £17,000 to an education programme for children with learning difficulties.

The programme at the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum at Singleton, Chichester, is now in its second year and is being supported by Barclays.

The museum of historic buildings and rural life, which has won several national awards for its education service, has more than doubled the number of children with special educational needs it helps each year through the programme.

Barclays has already contributed £17,800 towards the project and next year will provide another £17,000.

Museum education officer Diane Walker said: "It is important the museum and its special resources are available to everyone and this unique programme enables us to help the neediest children."

Children from throughout the South-East enjoyed special workshop-based days exploring medieval, Tudor and Victorian life.

Specially trained staff worked with the children alongside local Barclays staff, who gave up their time as part of the bank's employee volunteering scheme.

Debbie Phillips, Barclays community manager for the South-East, said:

"We are committed to communities and we are delighted to continue our partnership with the museum."

For more details, call Diane Walker or Christine Standing on 01243 811927 or 811459, or email education@wealddown.co.uk