James Frew's Gordon Orr recently presented pupils at Sorn Primary with two playground netball stands to celebrate the completion of a £1.1m renovation project.

The company were principal contractors for the work which included major structural improvements to the Sorn school and the restoration of its landmark clock tower to its former glory.

Gordon Orr said: "There was a lot of work involved as there were also internal alterations including a revised floor plan reducing the classrooms from four to three to allow additional space for a library/resource room and toilets. The new layout also features a general office to the front of the school with a separate headteacher's office and staff room.

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"The finished result is amazing, there was a real lump in my throat when I saw the reactions from the pupils when they saw the finished school for the first time. We wanted to donate the netball stands as a thank you to everyone who worked so hard to help transform this lovely village school - the pupils, the teachers, East Ayrshire Council and the Parent Council."

Depute Leader of the Council Tom Cook officially opened the new building and remarked on its fascinating history which dates back to 1850, when it was gifted by Sorn Estate to the village to support the education of the young people in the rural area.

Councillor Cook said: "Class sizes were up to 140 and the main teachers were senior pupils, some of whom may have been 12 years of age - and the main learning resources would have been slates and chalk.

"However, using a building that was constructed for a very different education system, what has been created here is definitely modern and fit for the 21st century. We see bright decor, a welcoming entrance and classrooms supported by modern computing technology and promethean boards.

"I know from talking to them how much the pupils and staff welcome their new environment and I am sure that education in Sorn will continue its fine tradition."

(GK)