A special educational needs school in north Norfolk is one step closer to opening a new sixth form centre following a 'topping out' ceremony.

Sidestrand Hall School, near Cromer, which currently houses 159 students, hopes to be handed the keys to the new building in February following a long wait - not least a 12-month hold up whilst a Newt survey was undertaken.

The three-class sixth form, which will extend to a fourth classes from next September, will have access to four state-of-the-art classrooms, a computer suite, and kitchen facilities in the new development.

Headteacher Sarah Young poured a bottle of beer over the roof of the building during the ceremony which, according to tradition, is designed to ward off evil spirits.

She said the new building was vital for the future of the school.

Looking forward to the opening, Mrs Young, who was joined at the ceremony by Darren Reeve, commercial director of contractors Gill Building, said: 'This facility will enable us to give continuity to some of our more vulnerable students, and provide further educational opportunities to other students in the county.

'With all students now required to remain in education until the age of 18, it is essential they all have a place to study to provide them with the best chance of success.'

Local clergyman, Reverend Roger Billings, gave thanks for the new building and added he hoped it would be a place for integrity, truth, education, and fun.