A WORCESTERSHIRE independent school will come under new ownership as it prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Bredon School is to be bought by its general manager, David Keyte.

Founder Colonel Tony Sharp and his fellow owner Betty Thomas have decided to pass the school on to the next generation.

Mr Keyte will become the new owner of the school, at Bushley, near Upton-upon-Severn, next Thursday, April 18.

The first project under his ownership will be the £250,000 construction of new boarding dormitories in a roof area of the school's Pull Court mansion.

Construction work started last week, and the 25 additional boarding spaces are due to be ready in time for the start of the autumn term in September 2002.

As well as becoming the owner, Mr Keyte will also remain in his present role as general manager, working alongside the other members of his senior management team, headteacher Mike Newby, deputy head Alasdair Harley and Peter Basten, the director of studies.

Col Sharp and Mrs Thomas will retain strong links with the school. They will continue to own the grounds and buildings, including Pull Court. The school, under the ownership of Mr Keyte, becomes their tenant.

"I have been involved with the school for the last 40 years and was very anxious to see it being taken over by the next generation," said Col Sharp.

"Mrs Thomas and I are absolutely delighted with these developments and know that we are passing on the business of the school to a very professional and dedicated team."

Since Mr Keyte joined Bredon School in January 2000, he has put his skills as a former senior accountant with the BBC to good use in spearheading a financial recovery.

"It's taken four months to iron out all the details, but I'm delighted that the purchase has finally been completed," said Mr Keyte.

"These are exciting days at Bredon School. Pupil numbers are rising and our first major building project for some years is now under way."