A PRIMARY school is celebrating its golden anniversary with a series of events.

Cherry Tree Primary School officially marks its 50th anniversary today, Monday, April 22.

And celebrations have involved not only the school community but the wider Lymm community and pupils who have attended Cherry Tree over the past 50 years.

Helen Graham, head teacher, said: "The school has evolved substantially since it first opened.

Our children now enjoy a huge range of outdoor play equipment which wasn’t available to begin with. We have extended the school building to accommodate our growing needs. What has been wonderful to see is where lots of our former pupils are now and how they have gone on to achieve happiness and success in their chosen careers.

"We have certainly seen them blossom and grow, which is our key aim.”

The celebrations began over the Easter holiday with the Cherry Tree PTA organising a free Easter hunt trail around the village for the whole community. The trail encouraged families to spend time together and enjoy the beautiful village that has been home to Cherry Tree for the past half a century.

Over the past few months, Mrs Graham, has been in touch with pupils who attended the school in the past and has gathered a series of photos which show how much the school has changed since it first opened and stories of where Cherry Tree pupils are now.

The celebrations continued with the PTA anniversary disco which saw 200 members of the school community enjoy an evening of dancing and games. The school also celebrated with a non-uniform day with pupils coming in their party clothes or 70s outfits. Then, on the day itself, there was a whole school assembly, which former staff members and pupils attend.

Mrs Graham added: “We are very lucky to have an amazing school which has been enthusiastic in celebrating this milestone with us. Cherry Tree has always had a focus on fostering a supportive environment and nurturing our pupils’ talents.

"This is clearly evident in all the success stories we hear from former pupils, some of whom have children who now attend this school, which is lovely to see and testament of the school’s appeal.”

Victoria Kirkham, a Cherry Tree Governor and former Cherry Tree pupil, said: “It is wonderful to still be a part of Cherry Tree. I really enjoyed my time at the school as a pupil and made some lifelong memories.

"It has been great to become involved as a governor to be able to give something back.

"I consider my children really fortunate to attend such a great school, which focuses on ensuring they are happy so that they are best able to learn effectively and have solid foundation on which to build their future.”