WITCHFORD Village College has been boosted by a grant of almost �400,000 that help it carry out much-needed improvement works.

The college secured the substantial sum from the Government’s Academies Capital Maintenance Fund after its application was given the green light.

The Government received bids for 2,465 projects from 1,071 academies across the country, totalling �1.16 billion and, following the assessment process, they awarded about �250 million to 773 successful projects.

The school, on Manor Road, received some �382,207 to put towards a replacement for its crumbling heating system, new energy efficient windows and improved heating units.

The cash will also go towards new blinds which the school hopes will improve its energy efficiency while improving the working environment for pupils and teachers.

College principal, David Taylor, said: “I am absolutely delighted and hope that we will be able to get this essential work done before the winter so that college is a more comfortable place for students and staff to work during the colder months.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Marie Atmeare, director of resources, who organised the successful bid and also Gavin Peasey, site manager, for his support.”