TWO schools in Darlington close this week and staff, parents and children have chosen their own way to mark the end of an era.

Eastbourne Nursery School, in Belgrave Street, shuts today after 58 years.

From September, many of the children and some staff will join the foundation stage nursery unit at Dodmire Infant School.

Yesterday, parents, staff and past and present pupils enjoyed a garden party in the playground, with a bouncy castle, ball pool and face painting.

Headteacher Lesley Beavis said: "The nursery has strong links with the community and people will be sad to see it go. However, we want to celebrate all that has happened here.

"We have accepted that things have to move on. Everybody has worked very hard to be positive about the move."

Mrs Beavis said children had been presented with a keep-safe book.

On Friday, Sadberge CE Primary School, near Darlington, will close, two months before a multi-million education centre opens in nearby Middleton St George.

The school hosted a service of thanksgiving yesterday afternoon with plays, music and speeches.

Each of the 28 pupils also said something about their time at the school.

Headteacher Hilary Barren said: "This school opened in 1966 but there has been a school in the village since 1799. It will be sad to see that change.

"Our first concern has been for the children and we have ensured that they feel the move is a positive thing. We have given them as much support and stability as possible."

Three of the school's crosses were yesterday entrusted to St Andrew's Church, in Sadberge.

The school will also hold a children's concert on Friday to mark the school's last day.

"We will be giving all our time to the children. We feel they have been very brave about this and the parents have shown great support," said Mrs Barren.

A spokesman for Darlington Borough Council said there were no definite plans for the future of either of the school buildings.