A pageant of pupils celebrated their school's history as they welcomed the opening of its new building.

Children from Great Bentley Primary School paraded around the village in costumes from different eras since the original building opened in 1896.

Every period from Victorian and Edwardian to Rock and Roll and punk was represented on Saturday.

Headteacher Diana Cleaver said: "It was so fantastic and it exceeded our wildest expectations.

"The costumes were incredible and the parents all put so much effort into making them."

Following the parade, a ceremony was held to officially open the school in Plough Road.

Joan Fookes, who attended the school in 1927, cut the ribbon with the help of four-year-old Katie Cribbs, who is the youngest pupil.

The Rev Bernard Metcalfe blessed the building and three children, Kara Worsley, Joseph Bodily and Harry Walker were involved in making speeches and cutting a celebration cake.

A magic man, stilt walkers, Harwich Brass Band, musicians and a choir were among the afternoon's entertainment.

Stalls collected £2,800 and proceeds will go towards school funds.

Great Bentley Primary School kept its Victorian frontage but the rest was completely developed including new classrooms, hall, kitchen, kiln room, information technology suite and medical room.

Mrs Cleaver added: "We are so pleased that everything seems to be coming together; we've got a fabulous new building that has everything a school for the 21st century needs, our results are high and I think now is the time our school is going to begin to fly."

Published Monday, June 9, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette