ACTOR Christopher Fairbank was transported with delight on his arrival at a North-East school.

The actor, best known as Scouser Moxey, in the TV comedy drama Auf Wiedersehen Pet, arrived as guest of honour at Hall Garth School, Middlesbrough, to find pupils and teachers had done their homework.

Nearly 1,000 youngsters and members of staff formed into the shape of the real star of the last series of the programme - Middlesbrough's Transporter Bridge. All were dressed in the bridge's blue colour.

It had taken weeks of rehearsals to get it just right.

They pulled the surprise on Fairbank, who had accepted an invitation to open the school's £300,000 performing arts building, which includes a mirrored dance studio with ballet bar and sprung floor, music practice rooms and changing rooms.

Headteacher Richard Bain said the "second to none" facilities would be a vital asset to the school and community.

He said: "A huge amount of time and effort went into our bid for performing arts status, and we are indebted to those who supported us, and to staff, pupils, parents, friends who worked tirelessly to raise the money for the new facility. It really was partnership in action.

"We already have a thriving arts, music and drama programme, but the new centre - which is the realisation of a dream - will enable us to expand our ever-increasing activities."

The school won official performing arts status last year and with it a £100,000 grant for the building, which was match-funded by the school. An additional £75,000 was raised through sponsorship from local industry, organisations, community bodies and friends of Hall Garth. The rest of the money was made up by the school, with support from the local education authority.