THE official launch party to mark the 450th anniversary of Prior Pursglove College brought together young and old to kick-start the festivities.

Lesley Hunter, the oldest known former student at Guisborough Grammar School, the former name of the college, was on hand on Tuesday to cut the cake and get the party started.

He was joined by the youngest students at the college, Leo Smith and Lewis Whitewood, both born on August 31, 1994.

The 90-year-old RAF veteran, of Billingham, joined the school in 1931 before joining the Forces and carrying out 55 missions over Italy as a gunner on a light bomber.

He said: “I have got great memories of the school and I thoroughly enjoyed the sporting side of it all, playing football and rugby here.

“After I left, I joined the RAF and flew 55 missions across Italy.

“I lost one of my best friends, Les Cornforth, during the war and it was very poignant to see a picture of him in the cricket team, which is in the display.”

Students released 450 purple balloons for the college’s The Sky’s The Limit balloon race, with staff and students sponsoring a balloon in the hope that theirs would travel the furthest distance to win a cash prize.

Performing arts students reenacted the signing of a charter by Queen Elizabeth I, a historical document dating back to June 5, 1561, which remains at the college today.

Principal Judy Burton said: “I think we are almost in a unique position of having being here uninterrupted for that length of time.

“Today is a very important day because it is the start of our celebrations, which will run through until May. The staff and students have arranged a number of events and we are hoping that everyone will enjoy the fun.”

The culmination of the celebrations takes place on May 7 at the college and Gisborough Priory.

Anyone who wants to be involved in the events should call the school on 01287-280800.