NEW food technology and performing arts rooms have been officially opened at John Of Gaunt School, Trowbridge.

Wiltshire's chief education officer Dr Bob Wolfson cut the tape to the Government-funded food technology room, which holds 20 small kitchens.

Staff from Bath architects Architects Studio and building company Downing, Rudman and Bent joined technology staff who helped design rooms at the evening ceremony.

"Technology staff were involved in the design of the technology rooms, because they know what is needed. The new room contains cutting edge industrial standard equipment," said headmaster Stephen Gee.

Work began on converting what was previously two food technology rooms three months ago.

The room, financed by the Government's New Deal for Schools fund, will cater for GCSE and A-level students.

Mr Gee cut the ribbon on the new performing arts room, converted from a sixth form snack bar, the same evening. The school's new addition will be used for theatre studies and play rehearsals.