Crowning Glory
A STUDENT was on top of the world yesterday after his course work became part of his college's heritage.
A Level student Tom Spears helped install a new weathervane which he designed, fabricated and bequeathed to Northallerton College.
The 18-year-old, of Borrowby, helped workmen from Tom Willoughby contractors attach the handcrafted steel, copper and brass vane on top of an old ventilation tower, marking the culmination of weeks of work.
The two worked together on the brief for weeks coming up with a design that featured the historic Cuthbert Cross and a spear to complement the four points of the compass.
Tom was on hand to oversee installation work – paying special emphasis to the weathervane's alignment.
"I think it looks absolutely fantastic and really is the crowning glory of the college," said Mr Hill.
Tom, who is due to complete his college studies this month, is now looking for an apprenticeship in engineering. He said: "It was a great project to work on as it stretched my abilities. Originally I had plans to include the school coat of arms but after discussing this with Mr Hill realised it would have been too heavy, so we stuck to the Cuthbert Cross. It is built to last and it feels great to be part of the college's heritage."
The 840 student college marked its centenary in 2009 but a grammar school in the town can be traced back to 1322.
Chair of Governors John Dennis added: "The weathervane looks splendid and really finishes off what is a lovely building. Tom has done a fantastic job and his workmanship reflects the high standards that make Northallerton College one of the best in the country."
