An old boy who donated $1 million to Bradford Grammar School's new sixth form centre flew in from America for the grand opening.

Roger Evans, whose £714,000 helped make the project possible, has been nicknamed the 'million dollar man'. Mr Evans, pictured with pupil Tom Kyle, 18, flew in from the USA especially for the event yesterday.

Because of the generosity of the Californian venture capitalist, the centre has been named the Roger Evans Sixth Form Centre.

The president of the appeal is old boy David Hockney who also made a 'generous donation' to the appeal last year.

Headmaster Stephen Davidson said he was delighted with the response to the appeal which was launched in late September 1999.

At the time he said: "We are absolutely thrilled with the generosity shown by supporters of the school. David Hockney has pinned his colours to the mast and made a very generous donation."

However, Mr Davidson said he was unable to reveal the sum donated by the California-based artist, who attended the school from 1949 to 1954 thanks to a scholarship.

"David has always supported the appeal which aims to help talented young people like himself to get a Bradford Grammar School education regardless of their parents' ability to pay."

At the opening ceremony, which was attended by Bradford Lord Mayor Councillor Stanley King, Mr Davidson said: "It is hard to believe that just eight months ago this was simply a huge courtyard with a JCB parked in it.

"After less than two years of energetic fundraising, the new sixth form centre completes the first phase of our £4 million improvement programme, which of course includes the £500,000 we have spent on enhancing Clock House, our junior school."

The new centre is set on two floors in an open plan. An atrium is bounded by dedicated work areas, computer stations and meeting rooms.

The space released by the creation of a new swimming pool - due for completion in late June - has enabled the school to create a state-of-the-art music facility, encompassing teaching and practice rooms as well as a large auditorium.

The campaign to build the new centre has been chaired by old boy, and successful businessman, Roger Bowers.

He said: "Our initial target was at least £2.5 million. Many people thought we would never get more than £1 million but with almost £2.3 million raised I am determined we should find at least another £200,000 to complete the major works.

"In fact if I can persuade the school community to join in with vigour we might be able to satisfy the headmaster's vision for an all-weather pitch."