AWARD-winning film-maker Lord David Putnam will be in Rawtenstall on Monday to officially open Cribden House School's modernised premises.

Lord Putnam, who is famous for epics such as Chariots of Fire, is also chairman of the influential General teaching Council.

The school, on Haslingden Road, recently received a glowing report from school inspectors Ofsted who found it to be a 'very effective school'.

Chairman of governors Hazel Harding is also a member of the General Teaching Council and asked Lord Putnam if he would perform the opening ceremony and tour the school.

Cribden House used to be a residential school, but was changed to a day school in 1999 and can accommodate 40 children of primary-school age with special needs because of emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Headteacher Jackie Lord said: "Everyone is pleased about the visit and is looking forward to it.

"The former residential block has now been changed into classrooms and in a second phase of work the old school building has been completely refurbished.

"We have a new extension, new hall, staff room, changing rooms and toilets -- a complete overhaul.

"It is a considerably better place and the teaching room is very superior now, it is much better.

"We have seven teaching staff including myself and my deputy, six learning support assistants, a care and welfare officer and administration staff.

"In September 1999 our numbers had dropped but we have doubled since then and by the end of next week we will have 34 children on the roll." Ofsted found the school to provide 'a very safe, secure and caring learning environment where the efforts of all staff and pupils are valued and respected'.