CLITHEROE Royal Grammar School sixth formers will enjoy a new hi-tech library thanks to the generosity of a former pupil.

The Smithies Library, which has seen the original facility extended to double the study space available, has been named in honour of Arthur Smithies, who attended the Chatburn Road school in the 1930s.

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A generous bequest from the estate of Mr Smithies and his wife, Joyce, to benefit future generations, has enabled the building of a mezzanine level to provide space for more than 100 students, and sees the library equipped with iPads, laptops, books and journals The facility will be officially opened by another notable former pupil, the high sheriff of Lancashire, Amanda Parker JP.

The school’s head teacher Judith Child said that plans to refurbish and extend the library had been made many years ago, but the school had not been able to secure sufficient funds for the development.

She added: “We are incredibly grateful for the generous bequest from the estate of Mr Arthur Smithies and his wife, Joyce.

“Arthur was a student at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School from 1930 to 1937 and obviously had very fond memories of his time here.

“While the library has been fully modernised, we have retained the original style of windows, which are a beautiful feature.”

Jonathan Powell, deputy head teacher and head of sixth form, said they were only able to undertake the project with the extremely generous donation.

He said: “We are delighted with how it has turned out – the library looks fantastic and will be enjoyed by everyone.

“It’s such a generous act that will have such a positive impact on many students and this is Arthur’s legacy.

“He’s going to have an everlasting presence by giving future generations the opportunity to benefit.

“It can only improve the facilities at the college and we want to give the students the best possible chance at being the best they can be.”

The official opening of The Smithies Library takes place on Wednesday, November 4.

Parents and members of the community are invited to view the library and meet students and staff between 2.30pm and 3.30pm.