Pupils took on the role of a colourful red dragon that snaked its way through their new �1 million school extension after it was officially opened.The youngsters at Sporle Primary School marked the Chinese New Year while also celebrating the opening of a major extension to the 71-pupil school.

YOUNGSTERS transformed themselves into a colourful red dragon that snaked its way through their new �1m school extension to mark its official opening.

Children at Sporle Primary School marked the Chinese New Year

while celebrating the opening of a major extension to the 71-pupil school.

On Friday, school council chairman Sam Beech, 10, cut a ribbon across the entrance to smart new facilities and South-West Norfolk MP Christopher Fraser unveiled a plaque.

Norfolk County Council has invested more than �1m into the building, with the school contributing �50,000 from its own budget.

The cash has seen the construction of a new hall, library, staffroom, classroom and offices, and a new entrance, cloakroom space and storage area have been provided, along with new changing rooms for the school's swimming pool.

There was praise for everyone involved turning suggestions for improved facilities into reality, particularly for governors chairman Richard Palmer and the board of governors.

Headteacher Malcolm Brockway said the idea for the new extension was first discussed in 1998 and was part of a re-organisation of schools in the Swaffham area, with the school switching from being a first school to a primary school.

The new facilities were welcomed by Rosalie Monbiot, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for children's services.

"This extension will make huge difference to staff and pupils at Sporle Primary School and the pupils can benefit from a

fantastic new library and hall, as well as new classroom facilities and toilets," she said.