Local Government Minister Hilary Armstrong visited Wolsingham School and Community College yesterday, to mark the end of a £1.7m revamp.

Part of the two-year scheme to upgrade and extend the school's accommodation involved demolishing, and rebuilding a building which housed mainly sixth form facilities.

Another building, next to the lower school, was also knocked down.

Headteacher Mitch O'Reilly said: "I am delighted the building work has finished and we have our new accommodation."

Durham County Council's school places and capital budget manager Keith Banks said: "The council has invested significantly in the development at Wolsingham School and Community College.

"The result is accommodation for pupils, which is far superior to what was in place before."