WORK is to start today on a £4.2m education centre in the region, privately funded from an unexpected multi-million pound inheritance.

Jane Ritchie tried to build the Industrial Learning Centre 15 years ago, but struggled to get the necessary funding.

But when her cousin, Margery Freeman, died leaving the former careers advisor millions in her will, it enabled her to set up the Elm House Trust and finally achieve her goal.

"I just want to give something to the young people of Durham to share with their neighbours," said Miss Ritchie, 58. "It's a stone in the middle of the pond and hopefully it will send out a few ripples.

The facility, on Newton Aycliffe Industrial Estate, in County Durham,

is expected to open in September next year and will complement the Government's 14 to 19 education reform, which offers specialised diplomas alongside the existing curriculum.

The Cambridge graduate and former partnership manager of the County Durham Business and Learning Partnership feels strongly about linking industry and education.

She has a strong bond with the county, spending most of her working life in Bishop Auckland and Ferryhill, while living in Staindrop and Winston.

"The problem in schools is often that children cannot see the link between, say, science and maths, and its application in real life.

"On top of that, you have areas such as health and social care, where it is difficult to get students under 16 any work experience, and we will be able to simulate that experience."

It is hoped the centre will form partnerships with employers looking for training facilities in south-west Durham, who will share knowledge and facilities. The building will also be a base for school-centred initial teacher training.

Miss Ritchie said her cousin died aged 100 as an unknowing benefactor to the project, but was a well known figure in Wensleydale, where Miss Ritchie now lives.

"I didn't know I was going to inherit the money, so she couldn't possibly have known what I was going to spend it on.

"She would have wanted me to save it because she was that sort of women herself, but I think she would be happy with the centre.

"And I believe that one day I will face St Peter and I don't want to have to answer any embarrassing questions when I do."