WORK has begun on the new £4.25million Laneshaw Bridge Primary School – as pupils watch the progress from next door.

County Coun Susie Charles, cabinet member for children and schools, officially cut the first turf at the Emmott Lane site, assisted by headteacher Eileen Bleasdale.

She said: “It’s great to be able to set this fantastic project on its way. I know the children have been waiting for their new school for some time and are very excited.

“Laneshaw Bridge has achieved great success and Beacon school status in spite of the many shortcomings of the current building.”

The new school will replace the current accommodation and provide additional primary school places. It will also enable the school to have pupils in single-age classes.