DESIGN and technology has taken a step forward at Weaverham High School following the opening of a £280,000 extension.

The new classrooms are filled with the latest equipment and computer technology, enabling pupils to set their design sights at the highest level.

That's despite a blaze which ripped through the extension as it was built.

Philip Morris, head of design and technology at the school, said pupils would be able to work in a range of media, including electronics, control technology and the latest in computer design.

'As a specialist technology college we want our pupils to be at the forefront of work in design and technology,' he said.

'These rooms mean that high level design work becomes a reality and our pupils are able to demonstrate the high quality of design they can produce.'

Work on the extension began almost a year ago and should have been completed by Christmas. However the date had to be put back when a fire in September caused severe damage to the extension and the maths block.

The damage to the extension was estimated to be around £60,000 while the damage to the maths block came to more than £200,000.

Headteacher David Charlton said: 'It is fantastic to see these rooms in use at last. The fire was a big setback but the staff pulled together to cope with the ensuing problems. We are delighted our pupils will now be able to gain the maximum benefit from these rooms.'