BEST-SELLING author Gervase Phinn officially opened Bentham's new primary school on Friday.

He spent time with pupils in each classroom, causing gales of laughter from youngsters and adults alike.

He told guests that children should always be listened to and the new school would make teaching much more pleasurable.

Headteacher Catherne Boocock thanked everyone who had helped with the project, including architect Kevin Bayliss and North Yorkshire County Council's strategic planning officer John Lee.

Mrs Boocock was presented with a bouquet of flowers from the governors in recognition of the extra work that she had undertaken.

The ceremony concluded with afternoon tea in the hall.

Paul Taylor, vice-chairman of the governors, said: “The school is incredible. Several headteachers, some from other authorities, were unanimous in saying the new school building was the very best they had ever seen.

"It has been a long, hard struggle to reach this wonderful outcome and I would like to give thanks and credit to all the governors, past and present, who have worked so hard to bring about this brilliant building.”