A DARLINGTON school will turn back the clock for a landmark anniversary celebration this week.

North Road Primary School is marking its 90th year with a day of events on Friday.

The Friends of North Road Primary School appealed for former pupils and staff to join the celebrations and have been overwhelmed by the response.

The school was a girls' secondary modern until 1968, and many women who were taught there are planning to return on Friday.

People who were connected with the school in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s have been in touch, and one woman who was a pupil in 1927 has even called with her memories.

Many of the former staff and pupils will be at the school as part of the celebrations. The school will be open from 1.30pm to 4pm for visitors, who will be welcomed by pupils and teachers dressed in 1915-style clothes and taking lessons from the time.

Memorabilia and photographs loaned to the school will be on display, and there will be a traditional Punch and Judy show for younger visitors.

A film made by pupils about how the school has changed over the years will also be shown all day on a big screen. The day will end with a tea party.

Michelle Thompson, of the friends, said: "We are sure it will be a fantastic day. Many of the people who have been in touch to share their memories of the school are planning to come along, and it will be lovely to show them how things have changed."