A SPORTS day for former students and staff was held at St Mary's in Menston as part of a year-long series of events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school.

More than 100 participants took part in football, netball and multi-sports competitions, with as many others spectating.

The football competition involved seven teams, with some players having left the school 30 years ago.

Assistant headteacher, David Geldart, who organised the event, said: "The day was a remarkable success. Sport is great for bringing people together and this event was a perfect example of that.

"I would like to express my sincere thanks to all involved in the day, especially Michelle Hefferon, Jackie Ash, Claire Bassendale, James Russell, Ben Townend and Steve Blake, who have worked tirelessly on the planning for months."

The football competition was eventually won by Sam Townend, Ryan McMurray, Martin Roberts, Mark Roberts, Patrick Clough, Rauri Docherty and Aiden Webster.

The netball competition was won by the St Mary’s staff team consisting of Barbara Pounder, Alison North, Amanda Murphy, Claire Anderson, Jo Greenhalgh, Natalie Mallinson, Donna Neale, Helen Burton, Emily Maguire and Claire Parlby.

The multi-sport competition consisted of eight sporting challenges of skill and fitness. This was open to anyone who attended the day’s events and was won by Alan Storey, who attended St Mary’s in the 1980’s, when he was an outstanding athlete and footballer.

Second and third places in the competition went to current students Kieran Roebuck and James Key.

Visitors also enjoyed guided tours of the school and students provided live music. The afternoon concluded with refreshments and the presentation of prizes.