Verdin Technical School

Spent the morning being given a tour of the Verdin Technical School and Gymnasium. Until lately run as an art college by Mid-Cheshire College. Donated by Sir Joseph Verdin, salt proprietor of Cheshire to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, 1897. Opened by the Duke of Westminster.
Carolyn Shepherd is seeking to take over the building for use as affordable artists studios by the London Artists Collective.
I've been asked to help to help with the heritage aspects and to help them recruit a conservation architect.
It is strange in this QE II Diamond Jubilee year, and just after the 2012 London Olympic Games, to stand next to stained glass windows celebrating Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and gymnastics, in an empty arts college!

The official opening of the Verdin Technical School and Gymnasium  by
the Duke of Westminster 24 July 1897