A Wrexham school for children with special needs will be handed a financial help line by two Welsh politicians after an arson attack destroyed five minibuses.

The specially-designed vehicles, complete with wheelchair lifts, are needed to get the children at St Christopher's to and from the school.

The effect on the children must be devastating

Dr John Marek

Wrexham AM Dr John Marek and the Welsh Assembly's Presiding Officer Dafydd Elis- Thomas, were so appalled by the attack they decided to hold a fund raising event.

Prominent business people from south Wales are being invited to the 17 July event at the assembly's offices in Cardiff Bay.

Dr Marek said: "The news about the school's buses came as a terrible shock, the effect on the children must be devastating.

"That anyone could carry out an act of such mindless stupidity is beyond my understanding."

Horse riding

More than 200 children are pupils at the school - many of whom are mentally and physically disabled - from the ages of six to 19.

The arson attack happened last month and comes after the school was flooded earlier in the year.

As well as transporting pupils to school, the buses are used for other activities for swimming lessons, horse riding lessons.

Three of the school's fleet of buses escaped the blaze - one of them was off the site at the time.

The school has now been re-opened and a criminal investigation iinto the attack is underway.

Dr Marek added: "I know the local community will rally round to help the school but this reception will hopefully bring help from outside the area."