A Newmarket secondary school has had double reason to celebrate after planning permission for its new library was granted – at the same time it received an £10,000 anonymous donation.

Newmarket Academy, in Exning Road, says it is “thrilled” to have received the money, which comes after a donation towards the project from Godolphin founder Sheikh Mohammed.

Nick Froy, headteacher, said: “We have always made every effort to place the school in the heart of the community and we are proud of the relationships we have fostered in and out of the school.

“We were thrilled to receive this anonymous donation which will be used to fund increased reading material as well as other curriculum items that will support challenge for all students and extending and deepening their learning.”

After Forest Heath District Council approved plans for the project, work is now due to start in September with the library up and running by autumn 2019.

Mr Froy added: “We are delighted that we have received the necessary planning permission.

“Sheikh Mohammed’s continued and considerable contribution to this school will make a significant difference to the lives of every student who attends our Academy.

“This library project allows us to put literacy at the very heart of the school.”