A NEW £150,000 teaching block has been opened at a Herefordshire secondary school after the money was donated by a county couple

The new Clive and Sylvia Richards Vocational Centre at Queen Elizabeth High School in Bromyard was opened last week, and will benefit students on automotive, construction and animal care courses.

The money was donated by the Herefordshire couple's charity.

Headteacher Martin Farmer said: "This provision, so kindly provided for us by Clive and Sylvia Richards, will help transform the employability prospects of so many young people who do not see their pathway as a fully academic one after they leave us at Queen Elizabeth."

"The ability for our students who wish to enter a career in the automotive industry for example to actually take apart and reassemble cars in a workshop brings a sense of pride and enthusiasm and can only give them an advantage in life as they get older."

"We are thankful to both Clive and Sylvia for their financial backing, but more so for the commitment they have shown in ensuring that the Centre is a success long term.

"The contacts and knowledge they have brought to the project are as valued as any financial contribution."

Mr Farmer added the school currently has around three times the number of students entering apprenticeships or employment than the national average.

The centre was officially opened by coun Jonathan Lester, a former student and chair of governors at the school, on September 30.

Members of the town council, representatives from colleges within the county and people working in the relevant industries in the town also attended.

Prior to the cutting of the ribbon by coun Lester, presentations were made by Mr Farmer, Clive Richards, current Queen Elizabeth chair of governors Andy Jones and Bromyard and Winslow Mayor coun Roger Page.