YOUNG people with autism and speech and language difficulties have a new centre in the Forest.

Forest MP Mark Harper officially opened the £130,000 communication and interaction centre at Ruardean Church of England Primary School last week.

Headteacher Jane Evans said: "It is everything we hoped for and everything we think our children deserve."

The new building, provided by Gloucestershire County Council, is a bespoke unit, providing a larger classroom and withdrawal room as well a fully equipped kitchen area and toilet facilities so that all of pupils' needs can be met under one roof.

The centre is one of four across the county which provide a total communication approach using a range of teaching and learning methods, including symbols, signing, picture exchange and computers.

There is regular access to specialist teachers, teaching assistants and speech and language therapists, who all have knowledge and experience of communication and interaction difficulties.

Jayne Whittington, the teacher in charge of the centre, said: "Our pupils with autism often have sensory needs and need space away from other children.

"These pupils can experience high levels of anxiety and being in a smaller classroom, where everyone is in very close proximity, can prove quite stressful for them."

Mr Harper said: "The staff here do such valuable work but it was taking place in an environment that was not good enough.

"I am delighted that the county council is continuing to invest in education."