IT was a double celebration when staff, parents and governors staged a "happy anniversary" event to mark a Bury school's 40th birthday.

Two special celebrations took place at Old Hall Primary School in Springside View, encompassing an evening and after-school event, based on a distinct 1970s theme.

Each class studied aspects of the 1970's era, including art, music, clothes, games, food, inventions, toys and children’s programmes. Visitors were able to take a journey back in time through the decade as they toured around the school, looked at photographs and memorabilia, and watched the special mini-films produced by each class sharing their 1970s themes.

Staff and pupils held a themed dress day, and learned songs from the decade. The choir opened the celebration events by singing a selection of Abba hits including the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest winner "Waterloo".

Visitors also enjoyed the 70s-themed buffet and the parent teachers' association contributed by raffling special 1970s-themed hampers and selling special 40th anniversary commemorative tea towels.

Former headteacher Mr Alan Cookson commented that the school looked “amazing” for the celebration and the range and detail of the work produced by the children was "excellent".

Headteacher Mrs Deborah Ainscoe said: “It has been fabulous to see so many visitors to the school. It has brought back many happy memories for so many people and has inspired our children to find out more about the school’s past history,. It has been lovely to hear so many compliments about Old Hall.”

The school, which opened in August 1974, was built to provide education for the new expansive housing estate adjacent to Brandlesholme Road.

The school started life with 74 pupils and five staff, two of whom were teachers.