THE Government has given its backing to the rebuilding of St Francis Xavier School on Darlington Road, Richmond.

The Department of Education has indicated it is willing to contribute 80 per cent of the cost, estimated at several million pounds.

The board of governors now has the task of finding ten per cent of the total, as well as leading a comprehensive consultation exercise with the school's neighbours.

The remaining ten per cent will come from other grant sources.

If everything goes according to plan, the design phase of new school project could be completed within the next 12 months and contractors could move on to the site to begin construction work in the late spring next year.

Head teacher Joe McAuley said he realised there were still a number of obstacles to overcome before anything was set in stone - including the major task of fundraising.

He said: "We are talking about the construction of a completely new school with all the facilities required to meet the most recent government guidelines."

St Francis Xavier - known locally as SFX - is one of only a few joint Catholic and Church of England secondary schools in the country.

At the moment there are 400 pupils aged between 11 and 16 years educated at the school; the roll would increase to around 450 once the building is completed.

Chairman of the governors Jim Whiston said although everyone was delighted with the news there was still a long way to go and a lot of money to raise.

He said: "There are challenges ahead but the proposed redevelopment presents many exciting opportunities in developing a school for the future.

"There will be a number of opportunities for individuals, businesses and organisations interested in securing the distinctive standards and ethos of St Francis Xavier to play a significant role in the development of the new school.

Middlesbrough diocese Bishop John Crowley said: "A new building will enhance and enrich the existing provision and provide the best modern facilities for the children and the families of Richmond and the surrounding area."