Leominster Junior School children 'went back' to the 1950s by dressing in the styles of the era to mark an important landmark.

There were a number of very big events in 1953, including the Queen's coronation and Hilary and Tensing's historic Everest climb.

And in Leominster the junior school premises were built (then the infant section of Leominster County Primary School).

Comics

WH Wright, Chairman of the old Herefordshire County Council, officially opened the building on June 20, 1953.

To mark the half-century, the 420 children at the Junior School have been finding out about the events of the 1950s, trying out sums in the old pounds, shillings and pence, dressing in 50s' style clothes and looking at newspapers, books, cartoons, and comics from the period.

They enjoyed viewing scenes from the coronation, listening to 50s music, hearing reminiscences of life in school in those days - and watching The Flowerpot Men.

The children all received a commemorative coronation coin and a piece of an enormous birthday cake baked by Michelle Morris. The celebrations included a weekend launch of golden balloons in a balloon race, sponsored by Staffordshire Building Society. A barbecue and ceilidh with music from Pam Spenceley and her band rounded off the party.

Said headteacher Ian Foster: "The children have been really fascinated by the events of 50 years ago, and have particularly enjoyed photographs of senior members of staff from their childhood!

"We were particularly indebted to Mr Newman, a local resident, who provided compelling information about the early days in our building."