School's 700-year history on show

Christ College was established under Royal Charter by Henry VIII

A new archive has opened showcasing 700 years of history at a Powys school.

Historical artefacts, records and photographs relating to Christ College Brecon are on display to the public.

The archive has details about the college as a Dominican friary, before its establishment as a school under royal charter by Henry VIII.

Former pupil and film director Peter Watkins, whose work includes the BBC dramas Culloden and The War Game, opened the archive.

The project received a £44,600 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Mr Watkins was a driving force behind the project along with former pupil, school governor and record keeper David Smith.

The pair opened the archive, while Christ College head teacher Emma Taylor said it had much to offer people interested in local history.

"Christ College has been a seat of learning since 1541, and the site of the school has been occupied for at least 750 years, therefore it is of no surprise that we have a fascinating story to tell," she added.

"The opening of the Christ College archive will ensure that we can preserve memories and records of life at Christ College and these can then be enjoyed by current pupils, Old Breconians and by the wider community."

It will be known as the RJ Boulton Archive, named after Old Breconian Jim Boulton who, for 40 years, was record keeper and researcher of all matters relating to Christ College.

College pupils played a key role in the year-long project, who worked under the stewardship of librarian and archivist Anna Lang.