An Ipswich school’s annual swimming gala has been deemed a massive success.

This year’s event for pupils at the Thomas Wolsey School was funded thanks to a donation by the Emma Holloway Foundation, which was needed because the complex conditions of the pupils meant extra staff were needed.

Teresa Hills, the school swimming instructor who organises the gala, said: “Our specialist swimming pool is one of our most valuable facilities – being able to give all our pupils the chance to spend time in the water is extremely important.

“The gala is very special because every child gets to participate and show off their achievements, and it’s a great chance for parents to see their child swimming.”

The Emma Holloway Foundation was founded in 2010 following the death of Emma in a road traffic collision while travelling home from football training.

The aim of the charity is to help youth disability sport in Suffolk.

Founder trustees of the foundation, Neil and Jo Holloway, came along to watch the first day of the event.

They said: “Seeing the sheer joy on the children’s faces and the watching parents was an experience we’ll never forget. We also saw the terrific work put in by Teresa and the rest of the team, fantastic.

“The pleasure was all ours I can assure you and we look forward to continuing our association.”