ONE of the North-East's most popular television personalities re-opened a school following a £550,000 redevelopment scheme.

Tyne Tees weatherman Bob Johnson was invited to Howden-le-Wear Primary School, near Bishop Auckland, to unveil the extensive revamp.

The work included a full re-wiring and the installation of a computer room with teaching facilities, new windows and a new kitchen.

Additional storage areas have been added and open-plan classrooms have been separated, while a nursery has also been attached to the school.

The scheme was paid for by Durham County Council through its surplus places and capital funds.

Headteacher Val McCourt said: "The whole school has been refurbished.

"We got the money because we did an asset management plan and the premises were not suitable for delivering the curriculum. But now they most certainly are."

Pupils will benefit from new computers and the improved classroom layout, while electronic screens and whiteboards have been installed as an aid to teachers.

The school, which caters for 80 children, also has more room for new equipment, and will host breakfast and after-school clubs.

County councillor Trevor Carroll, who attended the opening on behalf of Durham County Council, said he believed the work would enable the school to go from strength to strength.

He said: "This educational development will represent major benefits for pupils and parents, both now and in future years, promoting the school for future generations.

"Now we have a school building that matches the success and high aspirations of the school.

"This is a building which provides an excellent learning environment."

Mr Johnson unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion before holding a question and answer session with pupils, who also presented him with gifts.

He then went on a guided tour of the new-look school, and said that he was very impressed with the changes introduced at the school.

He said: "This is a big honour for me. It's very important to keep the school in good condition.

"I wish the school the best of success with the new refurbishment - I could do with a refurbishment myself."

Parents and visitors are welcome to look around the new-look school at any time.

The school can be contacted on (01388) 763287.