HISTORIC school buildings in Buckinghamshire are set for a facelift to ensure that they are not forgotten and left to fall into ruin.

News of the biggest school refurbishment programme for 50 years was revealed by English Heritage on Wednesday after Government ministers backed the scheme.

Michael Newman-Horwell, education manager for English Heritage south-east, revealed to the Free Press: "All school buildings have a historical significance and are an integral part of the communities they serve.

"They have a special place in the hearts and minds of pupils past and present. There is nowhere else quite like your old school."

The local education authority, Buckinghamshire County Council, will liaise with English Heritage over any changes in the county.

English Heritage have made it clear that it favours repairs ahead of replacement.

Mr Newman-Horwell added: "We must above all ensure that the unique nature and style of English school architecture is retained.

"We must do all we can to promote the repair, refurbishment and reuse of historic school buildings."