IT was an emotional farewell at one Teesdale Primary School on Wednesday (November 30) as the whole community came together to share their memories before it closes its doors for the last time.

Startforth Morritt Memorial CofE Primary School at Startforth, near Barnard Castle, threw its doors open for former pupils, staff and parents to share their memories during the event which featured old photographs, records and newspaper clippings.

Dozens turned up to the open day which followed an unsuccessful fight to keep the village school open after the council announced plans to close it earlier this year.

Acting headteacher Vicky Bain, who has taught at the school for more than 20 years, said: “It gives the community a chance to say goodbye and it’s been really interesting getting all the old documents out and making the displays.”

“People have come from as far as Blackpool who used to be stationed at the army camp so that’s been really interesting,” she added.

The school’s 25 pupils officially had their last day on September 30 but some of the school staff will be left unemployed after the last day of term on December 16.

The school was set to celebrate its 150th anniversary next year.

Holding back tears Mrs Bain added: “It’s been a lovely school and a family and I think it’s really obvious as a staff that even though it’s been a difficult two years; it could have split people but it’s actually pulled people really close together – everybody has been really supportive which sums up the school.”

Former headteachers Brian Kent, Ken Hosey and Arthur Walker also attended the event.

Mr Kent, who held his post from 1982 to 85, said: “I’m quite emotional. The school was just a happy, successful school and there were about 140 children here then.

“I was quite surprised when they said it would close but the staff have put in a fantastic amount of work to put on this event.”

School governor John Blissett added: “It’s a sad day but this is a brilliant idea – they have done a sterling job especially as it’s been so hard for them.”

Pouring over some old school photographs, sisters Melanie Bell and Nicky Hayward, said they had fond memories of their time at the school in the 70s and 80s.

The sisters said they remembered how fun school was which had a “nurturing” approach to learning while Ms Hayward said one particular memory that stayed with her was when Father Christmas dropped in to deliver their Christmas presents after landing on the school field in a helicopter.

Mrs Bell said: “I just have extremely happy memories of being here – it was a very happy school. It was small and informal but with a really nice atmosphere.”

Mrs Hayward added: “I remember having a party on the field for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations and when Santas used to came in a helicopter to deliver presents.

“It’s a great shame – we need more schools that are good and smaller ones where everyone is nurtured.”

The school, which had about 25 pupils, will officially close on December 31.