VETERAN astronomer Sir Patrick Moore has given his blessing to a new observatory planned for Kingham Hill School.

The stargazer has offered technical advice for the observatory, which will be named in his honour, and is due to be completed in September 2014.

Pupils will be able to gaze at the stars from the observatory which will be built on the school’s hilltop site between Chipping Norton and Stow. This is part of a new development at the school which will include a library and a new science and maths department.

Headmaster Nick Seward, who has always been a great admirer of Sir Patrick’s work, met the astronomer at his home in Selsey, on the south coast, to discuss the proposed observatory.

“Like the Psalmist, astronomy inspired in me a sense of perspective, and of wonder at the universe and the place of human beings within it,” said Mr Seward.

“At Kingham Hill we enjoy a site largely free of light pollution and I’m convinced that our pupils will benefit from exploring the cosmos by telescope as I did when young.

“Sir Patrick’s encouragement and advice have been a real boost for the project.”