PUPILS, parents and staff got together to celebrate a special anniversary.

Dorchester Preparatory School first opened its doors to pupils in 1947.

Now, 60 years on, the Icen Way school has marked its diamond jubilee by opening a new garden.

A spokesman for the school said: "The Jubilee Garden has been created by parents working over many months to create a space that can be used by children for study and play."

Dorchester mayor Coun Robin Potter was on hand to officially open the garden and also helped pupils bury a time capsule marking the anniversary.

As part of the celebrations a special service was also held at St George's Church in Fordington. Bosses at the school have also announced that the school will now operate under the name Dorchester Preparatory and Independent School.

The name change follows an inspection by the Independent Schools Association, which gave the school an exceptionally good report'.

A spokesman said: "In its diamond jubilee year, the school wishes to retain the historical links of the name Dorchester Preparatory School and the Independent name used up to now by its senior school, signifying a desire to provide the best education tailored for each child without being swayed by changing fashions or league tables."