A SPANKING new bus, valued at over $100 000, was driven into the assembly hall of The St Michael School yesterday to loud cheers from students.

Handing over of the bus to the school was the fulfilment of a promise the Parent-Teacher Association made in 2001.

"I became president with this on the agenda and it is really an achievement for us to finally make this presentation to the school," PTA president Stephanie Proverbs-Bennett said.

"We've held numerous fund-raisers, with help from the students and corporate Barbados, and I'm sure it means a great deal to the students," she added.

After a ride in the new bus, Minister of Education Ronald Jones stressed the importance of parents being involved in their children's school.

"This was indeed an expensive undertaking and for a PTA to make that kind of contribution, they must be applauded for their efforts," he said.

Principal Shelton Perkins said: "When you receive a gift, the best way to show your appreciation is by cherishing it. The extent of your gratitude is determined by the extent to which you care the gift and this must last us a very long time." (PA)