ROUND-the-world yachtswoman Emma Richards kept her feet firmly on dry land when she launched a new mathematics and English block at a Southampton school.

Emma, who became the first British woman to complete the Around Alone race, was guest of honour at the opening of the £750,000 building at Chamberlayne Park School.

The building is part of a £9m council-funded development programme to extend and improve facilities at the school in Tickleford Drive, which has recently seen a rapid increase in student numbers due to its popularity.

Fully inclusive, featuring a lift and networking with the latest IT and Internet facilities, the block will allow students to have specialist facilities in which to study mathematics, statistics, English language and literature and media studies.

Headteacher Richard Hilary said: "We are really excited about the opening of this new building.

"It is part of the third phase of work which has been carried out in the school. Building projects have provided eight science labs, IT suites and a library, opened by Patrick Moore OBE, and a new performing arts block for dance, drama and music, opened Darcey Bussell OBE, a member of the Royal Ballet Company.

"Work is proceeding on the main building, providing refurbished classroom accommodation for students.

"Students now benefit from a wealth of superb facilities."