A GEORGIAN house used as a centre of creative learning in Droitwich Spa has been carefully restored to its magnificent former glory.

Whitford Hall and Dodderhill School has spent tens of thousands of pounds on the painstaking restoration of its Grade II listed building.

The grand family property was built in 1741 but little is known about the people who have called it home.

Headteacher Joan Mumby and a school governor are now keen to find out more about the building following the major facelift done during the summer.

The red brick house had been rendered many years before the school took it over in 1973 and its weathered and patch exterior was beginning to look shabby.

After the development of a new junior school at the Crutch Lane site, governors decided the historic house needed a little TLC.

It has since been completely stripped, re-rendered and decorated.

Mrs Mumby told the Advertiser: "English Heritage placed many restrictions on work that could be done but I think we have struck the right balance between improvements and maintaining the historic features."

The former kitchen has been transformed into a state-of-the-art computer room but the old range and bread oven remain as a reminder of its past use.

Bland magnolia walls are gone and rich gold, a popular colour during the Georgian period, has revitalised the interior.

Sadly time was called on the original Cotswold floor. Tiles were laid on bare earth and there was no damp proofing.

It was decided the floor would be replaced like for like but first builders had to dig three feet deep to lay the damp course.

The house boasts the main offices and provides an auspicious entrance to the school.

Mrs Mumby said all of the creative subjects, including art, cooking, music and textiles are taught in the traditional classrooms and she hopes echoes from the past can provide unique inspiration for her students.

"We are lucky enough to have a piece of living history and it really is a beautiful period building."

The house was bought for the school by the Cadbury Trust and later given to the school board.

It was purchased from a Miss Price, who even lived in rooms at the school for some time after the exchange.

The woman's niece later had a daughter who attended the Dodderhill independent school.

Maps given to staff show that the property was called Hillcourt House at the turn of the century and now a keen governor is planning to use deeds to investigate the history of its ownership.

Mrs Mumby is also inquisitive.

"I really want to get to the bottom of who lived here and how it has changed hands during previous centuries.

"I'm delighted with the improvements and I think we have actually managed to bring back the true character of the building.

"The school is thriving and our numbers are great.

"The renovation is a testimony to our own success."

If you have any information about the history of the building call Mrs Mumby on 01905 778290.