PUPILS at the oldest school in Middlesbrough enjoyed new facilities yesterday, when their nursery was officially opened.

Until recently, nursery classes at Linthorpe Infant School had been held in a dilapidated building.

But, funding from the New Deal for Schools allowed the 78-place building to be built.

Headteacher Ronnie Dee said: "This is a wonderful day for the school and the community. Governors, teachers and the LEA have worked hard to bring about this day.

"We know this nursery will be a centre for excellence for our youngest children and put us in the forefront of nursery provision. It will complement and enhance the excellent work already going on in the school."

The nursery children and teachers performed a special ceremony to celebrate the new facilities