BUSINESSMAN'S GIFT TO HIGH SCHOOL'S DEVELOPMENT PLAN (From Warrington Guardian)

BUSINESSMAN'S GIFT TO HIGH SCHOOL'S DEVELOPMENT PLAN

A HIGH school's ambitious expansion plan has been given a £100,000 boost by a retired businessman.

Former Nantwich Mill owner Frank Hockenhull has pledged his financial support for Brine Leas' development project which includes sport, leisure and performing arts facilities for both the school and the community.

The first stage of the plan is a £500,000 Art and Ceramics Centre. Building work is due to start this autumn.

Following on will be an extension of the sports hall to provide full leisure facilities for all and then a Performing Arts Theatre with a capacity of around 200.

Funding for the ventures has come from a number of sources including the latest contribution from Mr Hockenhull who has a home in Wistaston but spends much of his time in the USA.

"His gift is an outstanding example of someone wishing to do well for their home community and shows his commitment to the town and the future of its young people. His interest and support will receive permanent recognition in the final shape of the new developments - particularly in the provision for sport for the youth of the community," said Headteacher, Mike Butler.

The school was already a Cricket Centre of Excellence and the improvements would build upon its existing work and reputation, he added.

Other benefactors of the scheme include Jennings, the main developer for the Cronkinson Farm estate.

"They recognise that the new estate will make demands upon the local area and they are keen to play their part in building upon the community's resources," said Mr Butler.

He added that the changing world of work and leisure would require schools to provide both excellence during the school day and a focus for work and leisure for the whole community.

"This is our target and thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and local families we will make sure our vision becomes a reality," he said.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.