SUFFOLK-based building contractor Cocksedge has celebrated a �2million project for Jesus College in Cambridge with a traditional topping-out ceremony.

Cocksedge, which is based in Mildenhall, was contracted to refurbish and convert a historic terrace, formerly home to the Marshall Group, to create 20 en suite rooms and six flats for graduate students.

External works to the five-storey buildings at 19 to 22 Jesus Lane, two of which are listed, included repairs to the fa�ade and roof, window restoration and landscaping.

Internal work involves a full mechanical and electrical renewal and the creation of two flats in former roofspace.

The completed scheme, to be known as Marshall Court, is due to be handed over to the college in September.

The topping-out ceremony, a tradition which marks completion of the highest point of a development, was performed by the Master of Jesus College, Ian White, who put the finishing touches to the sill of the uppermost window on the site.

He was accompanied by Steve Nugent, construction director at Cocksedge, together with subcontractors, the design team and members of the college.

Mr Nugent, said: “A topping-out is an age-old ritual designed to shield the building from harm. In our case, the ceremony marks the completion of the refurbishment of the exterior of the buildings, which will provide students with custom-made space in which to live.”

“We have a long track record of delivering successful schemes for the colleges and the University of Cambridge.

“We understand the complexities that are involved when operating within the education environment and we are proven at delivering listed building refurbishment projects on time and within budget.”

Christopher Pratt, senior bursar at Jesus College, said: “The college is delighted with the quality of the design and workmanship and the fact that it can bring these buildings back into use in time for the coming academic year, demonstrating the careful planning and energetic execution of the project by all involved.”