A FURNESS school took the opportunity to get new classrooms and a refurbishment for a key Victorian building by grabbing Government cash on offer to reduce surplus places.

The Mail, on February 26 on 1994, noted: "Dowdales School in Dalton has celebrated the official opening of its newly refurbished buildings by Furness MP John Hutton.

"Work on the new classrooms and technology rooms and the moving of the music room and library started last July.

"Plans to improve the school became possible when money was released by the Government for schools which reduced their surplus places.

"One of the old school buildings is being demolished and will provide badly needed parking spaces.

"Park of the work involved refurbishing the Victorian building Ashburner House which is part of the school.

"During the renovation work the building was given listed status.

"Mr Hutton was asked to sign a new visitors book to mark the refurbishment.

"There are two new geography rooms, an improved music block, with one fully soundproofed room for the school band and the technology room is now fully equipped with computers."

Mr Hutton said: "This programme is not only an investment for our children and the education of our children, it is an investment for the future."

Headteacher Liz Moffat said: "We are absolutely delighted.

"It has really enhanced facilities for the children."

On November 11 in 1989 The Mail reported on 300 other visitors as the school hosted an open evening for parents to provide an opportunity to see the range of opportunities on offer to pupils.

Many who toured the school came away impressed by the new technology on show - much of it demonstrated by pupils.

The article noted: "Visitors had the opportunity to go to a German cafe, where all customers had to speak German, take part in some lessons, or simply have a look at the displays and see the work by pupils."

Event organiser and head of music Peter Dyer said: "Quite a number of people said it was excellent.

"Parents were surprised to see just how much technology we have on offer.

"There were 327 parents and children who came, which doesn't include the 100 or so pupils and staff who were taking part.

"This is the first in a line of events to open our doors to the public.