At the start of March, restorative works were started on School House, part of Chard School, following a grant award from the Chard High Street Heritage Action Zone.

The new scheme, launched in January of this year, aims to make repairs to historic buildings important to the town.

The beginning of June saw the scaffolding finally removed, after months of work carried out by specialist contractors.

One of Chard's oldest buildings, the flint-faced School building on Fore Street was built in 1583, and has been a school site ever since 1671, when it became Chard Grammar School.

Now, the historic building is a preparatory school for children aged 4-11 years.

Anna Matthews, Chard High Street heritage action zone project manager said:"The Chard School project is delivering critical repairs to one of the oldest and most important buildings in the town centre, ensuring that it will be there for years to come for all to enjoy.

"We are looking forward to working with other building owners in the town centre to support them to repair and improve premises through the grant scheme. The new Shop Front Design Guide will provide advice and guidance that ensures Chard's special character shines through." 

Chard Schools headteacher, Katie Hill, said: "Chard School are pleased to be involved with the Chard High Street Heritage Action Zone. We are delighted to receive a grant from the Heritage Action Zone which is enabling us to make some important repairs to our historic school building.

"These repairs will ensure that school house remains able to educate many future generations of children within its unique building."