A SCHOOL took a trip down memory lane when it combined its annual summer fair with its 50th anniversary celebrations and reunion.

Pupils and staff old and new came together at Skyswood primary school in Marshaslwick where classrooms were adorned with old photos and memorabilia from all five decades.

Headmaster Bob Bridle said: “It was a real trip down memory lane. Over 30 past teachers, ex-pupils and current pupils came together to look at the displays and share fond memories of the school. Old friends were reunited and many new friendships were made on the day.”

A time capsule containing artefacts put together by the school council was also buried, an idea which came from the school’s silver jubilee in 1977. Despite the best efforts of staff and pupils, the time capsule buried then was not located.

Robyn Stronach, fair coordinator, said: “Unfortunately we have not been able to locate the time capsule from 1977. Lots of past pupils were talking about it on the day and we now have a few more ideas as to where it might be buried. The exact location of the new time capsule has been documented in a guest/memory book with photographic evidence!”

There was plenty of memorabilia for sale, including a book called Skyswood – The First 50 Years written by Mr Bridle, former headmaster Alan Willison, and ex-pupil Karen Rains, of which nearly 300 copies were sold.

Every child at the school also had the opportunity to paint a tile for the anniversary celebrations which formed a large mural and the work will now take permanent pride of place in the school library.

Over � 7,000 was raised on the day which will be used to fund a number of items and equipment around the school.