A sunny day provided the perfect fun day setting at Alderman Blaxill School in Colchester.

Organised by the Parents and Community Group, it was a chance for supporters of the campaign to keep the school open to get together and let their hair down.

The Shrub End school faces a merger with Thomas, Lord Audley school, in Monkwick. An announcement on the plan to set up the new academy is expected soon.

Yesterday's fun day included the youth bus to entertain youngsters, an inflatable assault course, Shetland ponies and a chance to entertain the crowds at karaoke.

Representatives of the Parachute Regiment also attended to collect welfare packages for soldiers serving abroad, which were put together using donations from various companies in town.

Kevin Starling, of the group, said: "It's been a fantastic afternoon.

"Everyone came along - we had a great turnout - and I think everyone had a great time.