TONY BLAIR opened a revamped school by video yesterday after his schedule forced him to cancel the appointment.

The Prime Minister was flying back from Indonesia, but he opened Moorside Community Technology College, near Consett, near County Durham, with the help of modern technology.

His message was projected on to a screen and seen by pupils, teachers, governors and councillors during an assembly.

He had promised to attend the ceremony to celebrate the school's specialist status, but had to cancel when he realised it clashed with another appointment.

The Premier invited headteacher Jonathan Morris to his constituency home in Trimdon Colliery, County Durham, and recorded the message. In it, he said: "It is a tremendous thing that is happening with the school and I can imagine there is a great deal of purpose and vision about what is happening.

"It is a great day for you; you can be really, really proud. Well done, good luck and all the very best for the future."

Mr Morris said the video was well received by everyone.

He said: "Mr Blair was genuinely interested in education and it was wonderful to meet the man.

"The reaction in the hall was fantastic and he really seemed to catch the essence of Moorside.

"There was a real sense he was speaking directly to us."

Youngsters at the school were also impressed by the personalised message from the Prime Minister.

Year eight pupil Robert Gratton, of Bridgehill, near Shotley Bridge, said: "It was really good he has taken the time to invite people to his house and done a video for us. I am glad he thinks we are important and talented."

Hannah Murray, also in year eight, from Castleside, near Consett, said: "He made us feel special and important.

"Everyone was looking and paying attention. Even though we are a small school, he made us think anyone can achieve and do well."

The ceremony was incorporated into the college's annual business lunch, in which local companies and dignitaries were invited to hear about the school's aims and links with industry.

Esh Winning firm Hargreaves Holdings marked the event by donating a minibus worth about £20,000 so pupils can go on more outings.