AN extension to a rural primary school is to be dedicated to the memory of its late headteacher.

The project to extend Thornton-le-Dale School was the ambition of Colin Babister. He died in September last year, just before he was about to apply to North Yorkshire County Council for funding.

But the school governors took up the project and now work has started on the improvements, which will see the key stage two classrooms and staff facilities extended, a headteacher's office built and a disabled toilet added.

School governor Ann Thomas said: "The governing body knew how close the project was to Mr Babister's heart and how much time he had spent on it. So they took on the task of preparing the bid.

"We are all mindful of the work which Mr Babister did to set this project in motion and there will be a plaque in the new entrance foyer to commemorate his vision.

"Everyone is working hard to raise funds to make the extension and alterations really special and fitting to be dedicated to his memory."

The school has received help from Thornton-le-Dale Show and a number of fundraising events have been organised by parents, pupils and governors.