Boyz II Men star at opening of new Priors Court extension

A BOYZ II Men popstar brought excitement to the official opening of a new £112,000 outdoor play area at Priors Court School earlier this month.

Shawn Stockman, of the world-renowned US R&B group, joined the chief executive of Swiss watch brand SevenFriday, Daniel Niederer, to officially open the play area.

The singer was inspired to set up the charity Micah’s Voice to help families affected by autism by his own autistic son.

He said: “I wish America could have something like this. It is a necessity – if we had more places like this around the world the planet would be a better place.”

Funding for the play area was raised through events and trust applications and boosted by the production of a limited edition watch by SevenFriday to support the £112,000 appeal.

Prior’s Court director of education Sue Piper said that autism can create obstacles to young people’s learning and enjoyment of life. They experience a high level of anxiety and may struggle to focus if stressed. Physical exercise is key to reducing anxiety, increasing attention and has a calming effect.

“The new outdoor play areas will help the young people to develop social interaction skills, learning to play, relax and interact with staff and their peers,” she said.

“The support of SevenFriday has been amazing. Their generosity and that of all the donors has enabled us to create this wonderful and much needed resource.”

The head of fundraising at Prior’s Court, Lucinda Gillingham, said: “I am delighted that Shawn Stockman and Daniel Niederer could join us for the official opening of the wonderful new outdoor play areas which will be so beneficial for the young people.”