A SMALL dales school that closed in the 1970s held a reunion for former pupils, courtesy of its new owners.
 

When East Witton School closed in 1977 it has just 15 pupils and it is now a private residence. The present owners Barry and Mary Rose Reed have lived there for eight years, and thought that a celebration of the school’s history could be an interesting event for the village.

Mrs Reed explained: “We originally thought it was 200 years since the school opened, but it is actually 198. However as we were celebrating our wedding anniversary we thought we could invite all the former pupils to a reunion.”

Thirty-eight former pupils along with their partners spent the afternoon swapping stories and reminiscing in a large marquee at the rear of their former school. With the walls adorned by a selection of photographs, the guests enjoyed drinks and refreshments supplied by Mr and Mrs Reed. Felicity Langstaff, a former teacher, also joined them.

The oldest surviving pupil who was at the school from 1933, Ken Clarkson now 85, made a short speech of thanks to the hosts. He said: “We are all very grateful to Mr and Mrs Reed for their generous gesture today. I am sure we all agree it has been a very enjoyable afternoon.”

Former pupils Mary Fawbert and Judy Metcalfe who both still live in the village presented their hosts with box of chocolates and a large garden ornament. Finally, the class of 2015 all posed for the obligatory photograph.