SCHOOL’S OUT FOR KEVIN

Rounded vowels, a plummy accent and an unstoppable enthusiasm for grand designs have got Kevin McCloud a long way.

For nearly 18 years the former lighting designer has been following, criticising and praising anyone brave enough to build their own homes from scratch and – even braver – let McCloud and his cameras follow them around.

Fittingly, he was raised in his family’s own grand design before attending Dunstable Grammar School, an educational establishment with an interesting history and several other well-known former pupils. These have included 1950s Hollywood star Gary Cooper and actor Roger Parrott, who played Neville Chamberlain in The King’s Speech. The school, which was founded in 1728, is also said to have been the inspiration for the William books created by author Richmal Crompton, and illustrated by Thomas Henry. Crompton’s series of children’s stories were hugely popular from the 1920s onwards and were made into several TV series, movies and radio plays. But like many old piles, Dunstable Grammar – which was later renamed Ashton Middle School – is being transformed into a huge housing development.

Weston Homes is giving the entire site a makeover that will eventually feature 113 converted properties and 93 new builds including apartments and houses. These will include 19 loft-style one and two-bedroom apartments within its main building, Victorian-era science building and gym – although it’s not clear if McCloud approves.

■ Prices start at £185,000. More information from Weston Homes (01279 873300).