A RESTORATION project to breathe new life into a former grammar school has been visited by MP Rishi Sunak.

Mr Sunak met two members of Richmond Old Grammar School’s project team for a tour of the school.

Ian Hepworth, chairman of the Richmondshire Building Preservation Trust (RBPT), which is undertaking the project, and James Gravenor, who is heading up the work to restore and repurpose the building, showed Mr Sunak around the school, which has been empty for the last seven years.

Plans for the building include community offices, a large hall for use by community groups, clubs and organisations, a café with terrace overlooking the river, a large function hall and a contemporary hostel. Mr Sunak said: "I have supported the project from inception and will continue to do so."