NORTH EAST parents have been sharing their proud photos as children returned to school this week.  

Happy pictures flooded Facebook feeds as they eagerly posted their kids' delight. 

And many mums and dads answered our calls to share their back to school pictures with The Northern Echo. 

Mum Annette Speight sent in a photo of her daughter Annie-Grace, 4, starting in Reception last Thursday.  

Read more: Children’s Laureate unveils new Darlington school library

In County Durham, mum Julie Johnston said: "My 5-year-old daughter, Lexi Johnston, started Year 1 at a brand new school last week.

"We have recently moved to Newton Aycliffe from Northumberland and she was sad to leave her old friends but excited to make new ones. She’s settling in well and loves her new school. All the staff have been so lovely."  

Nichola Jinks sent in a photo of her three children starting school and said: 
"Sadly, two of my three are now off poorly with Covid but here are our pics." 

Paula Laughsalot Myers sent in a photo of her daughters and said: "My girls, Lillie-Mae's 1st day back at school and Falyn first day in Year 1."  

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