FORMER staff and pupils poured into Radipole Primary School in Weymouth for its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Current pupils welcomed visitors and led them on tours of the site when the Radipole Lane school threw open its doors for the day.

There were display boards in the hall with photographs covering every decade, as well as aerial shots for each decade showing how the school has developed.

Special guests included mayor Ray Banham, Wey Valley headteacher Phil Thomas and former teacher Jane Brochner, who was a teacher when the school opened in 1963 and still lives in Weymouth.

Chairman of governors Janet Cridland, who has been connected with the school since 1971 through her children and the governors, said: “It was just an amazing day.

“Miss Brochner was tickled pink with the day and the children were wonderful. They received a lot of compliments on the way they showed people around.”

Former pupils, staff, teachers and parents were among the 100 visitors. Another 100 also attended an evening social function.

Florist P&M Read donated flowers for the raffle prize and also for the tables.

Headteacher Veronique Singer said: “It was a really good day and very positive atmosphere.

“People who had tours of the school were so impressed by the children and how welcoming they all were.”

She added: “I am very proud to be head of such a lovely school.

“Thanks must go to everyone who contributed to the exhibition and thanks must also go to P & M Read florists.”

There were refreshments in the school hall and a 50th anniversary cake was cut.

Any proceeds from the day will be donated in aid of Radipole’s link school in Kenya.

The school is also having its summer fete on Friday July 5 from 5pm to 7.30pm, with all welcome.