THE oldest and the youngest pupil joined the Archdeacon of Taunton to officially open a new annexe at St Dubricius' First School in Porlock on Monday.

Sam Huish and Louis Wright helped the Venerable John Reed cut the ribbon on the Oak Wing extension, watched by fellow pupils and more than 100 invited guests.

The extension includes a purpose-built nursery, a community meeting room and new administration facilities for the nearby church.

The opening ceremony included a short service at St Dubricius Church with the Rev Bill Lemmey followed by a blessing and dedication of the building by Archdeacon of Taunton, the Venerable John Reed.

Guests were able to tour the new facilities before tucking into tea and cakes served by members of the Porlock Ladies' Group.

Mr Reed said he was delighted to take part in the celebrations: "The Oak Wing really embodies the very close working relationship that exists between the school and church in Porlock.

"I welcome the opportunity for St Dubricius Church to have this visible presence on the school site - indeed, this is only the second example of such an arrangement in the diocese."

The Oak Wing project was completed as a result of a partnership between the Diocese of Bath and Wells, Somerset County Council and the Benefice of Porlock.

Headteacher Chris Blazey said: "Individuals within these organisations fully supported our vision by enabling us to secure the necessary funding, as well as providing a range of expertise resulting in the delivery of a high specification, fully accessible facility which we believe will provide our children with the best possible start to their education journey."

Photo: Steve Guscott