Over £8,000 was raised at a Harpenden school’s recent 50th anniversary celebrations, with one mum claiming it was “the best event ever”.

The Grove Infant and Junior Schools, Southdown, held a “golden gala” which was aimed at being the biggest and best in half a century.

Harpenden Paralympic star David Clarke, Britain’s most capped blind footballer, who has had two children attend the schools, spoke at the fete and joined in a World Cup themed football display.

Visitors enjoyed rides, inflatables, a mini-market, fete games, food court, treasure hunt and an exhibition showing pictures and artefacts reflecting the schools’ 50 years.

Kids danced to Harpenden band, the Electric Jellyfish, while parents relaxed on picnic rugs.

Anna Archer, head teacher at the infant school, said: “I thought it was really brilliant that so many people came and enjoyed themselves.”

Vanessa Hogston, who has two children attending the Grove, said: “This is the best event I’ve ever been to at the school.”