A SIMPLE turf-cutting ceremony heralded the dawn of a college's new era as work began on a £3m development.

Phase one of the development at Norton College consists of a new sixth-form building and the relocation of four tennis courts and farm buildings. Phase two of the development will feature an animal-care building as well as further learning and teaching spaces and an indoor sports hall.

Des MacPhee, the college's business manager, described the project as crucially important for the future.

"By creating this, we will be providing a centre of excellence for students across Ryedale from September next year," he said.

"We will be working in collaboration with the other three Ryedale secondary schools and will welcome 130 students into our sixth form at the beginning of the next academic year.

"They will have the opportunity to study from a fantastic range of academic and vocational subjects."

The college is designated as a specialist technology college and it was that which led the Learning and Skills Council to provide the funding for the project.

Headteacher Tony Rawdin said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for us and we are determined to make the most of it."

Contractor for the project is Redworth Construction, of Norton. Its business development manager, Joanne Williams, said they would be utilising the latest design techniques and eco-friendly products in the development.

The turf-cutting ceremony was performed by Steve Keyworth, vice-chairman of the board of governors, and Suzanne Thurlby, strategic planning officer for North Yorkshire County Council.

Senior students from Norton College also attended.