A building society has given £2,000 to help a playgroup replace a temporary building destroyed by arsonists.

The burnt-out hut following the arson attack last year

The Coventry Building Society has handed over the cash to the Rainbow Playgroup. Arsonists causes tens of thousands of pounds damage to the group's base on the Glory Farm School Complex, Hendon Place, Bicester, last September.

The arson attack left the playgroup homeless and most of the children's toys were destroyed in the fire.

The Salvation Army stepped in to let the children use its headquarters in Hart Place, Bicester, and businesses and community groups rallied round to raise cash for the new temporary building.

Playgroup supervisor Debbie Holland said: "We are delighted with our donation, which will be used to acquire a new temporary building after the old premises were destroyed in the arson attack."

Nick Wood, trustee of the Coventry Building Society Charitable Foundation, said: "We are thrilled that our contribution will go towards helping the social, physical and intellectual development of young children in the local area for many years to come."

The playgroup offers activities such as painting, construction and singing. It operates morning and afternoon sessions which are attended by 100 children each week.

Argos in Sheep Street, Bicester, donated new toys following the fire and Bibby Distribution of Perimeter Road, provided skips for the debris.

Bicester Round Table and furniture company A Touch Of Pine, of Telford Road, each pledged £500 to the playgroup.