AN old Tynedale school is being used a base for a popular children's TV Show.

THE old former Hexham Middle School on Wanless Lane is now being used in the BBC series The Dumping Ground.

Crews and stars have been filming there since March and it will be the base of the children's TV show until October this year.

"The Dumping Ground" is the name the fictional character Tracy Beaker gave rather unfairly to the home she grew up in.

Adapted from the hugely popular series of novels by Dame Jacqueline Wilson, the show now focuses on the stories of  around 16 child characters who are seen to live together in a larger-than-life home. 

The BBC has been making The Dumping Ground elsewhere in the North East for the past 10 years and in this time it has become the most successful drama series ever for BBC. 

Filming has also taken place outside Hexham Abbey and The Queen's Hall.

Hexham Mayor Derek Kennedy said: "It is excellent news for Hexham to be used as a location by the BBC. 

"It will showcase what Hexham has to offer and the use of the former Middle School as a productive location rather than just standing idle. 

"The use of the Queen's Hall also helps contribute to the economy of the town. Let's hope we continue to get further interest from the performing arts in our town."