Bradford's most famous artist has helped his old school raise an astonishing £1.6 million in just five months.

David Hockney has made a 'generous donation' to Bradford Grammar School's Hoc Age appeal to raise £2.5 million.

Headmaster Stephen Davidson said he was delighted with the response to the appeal which was launched in late September.

"We are absolutely thrilled with the generosity shown by supporters of the school," he said. "David Hockney has pinned his colours to the mast and made a very generous donation."

However, Mr Davidson said he was unable to reveal the sum donated by the California-based artist, who attended the school from 1949 to 1954 thanks to a scholarship.

"David has always supported the appeal which aims to help talented young people like himself to get a Bradford Grammar School education regardless of their parents' ability to pay."

The next year or so would be a very exciting time for the school, added Mr Davidson.

Work is due to get under way in April on a £1 million sixth form centre and additional classrooms for Clockhouse, the junior section of the school. Hoc Age is the Keighley Road school's motto and translates as 'Do This'.

Its namesake appeal was launched last year to raise £1.5 million to build a new swimming pool and music centre.

A further £1 million will be used to set up a bursary fund which will replace the assisted places scheme, a national programme abolished by the Government.

Appeal co-ordinator Charles Wright said it was hoped that the remaining £900,000 would be raised within a few months.

"We are getting cheques and pledges every day. Some people are saying that it is all downhill from here. I disagree, I think the last third will be the hardest."

Mr Wright said the school had formulated a number of new strategies to reach its target.

"We are still approaching parents and individuals, but now we intend to approach charitable trusts, both local and national, who we feel would be sympathetic to our appeal."

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