Famous Bucks resident and television star Fern Britton helped to launch a new art and technology centre at a Little Chalfont grammar school this week.

The presenter and novelist, who previously went to Dr Challoner’s High School, was invited back on Tuesday to formally open their cutting edge new art and technology centre, which now features modern design studios.

The star, who told crowds at the school that she is “always proud to be a Challoner’s girl”, chatted with staff and pupils at the White Lion Road girls school and cut a ribbon to officially declare the block open.

The building has undergone a huge refurbishment project, funded by donations from parents. The work started at the end of the summer term and the school says the building is part of a “bigger vision to continue to develop new, cutting edge facilities as Dr Challoner’s High educates and inspires the young women of today.”

Speaking after the official opening, head teacher, Alan Roe, said: “It was a genuine pleasure to welcome Fern back to Challoner’s High, as an alumnae herself, the girls and staff love to hear her memories of the school and she seemed to enjoy exploring her old haunts. We are incredibly grateful to Fern for giving up her time.”