FORMER classmates have travelled from around the world for a reunion more than 30 years after leaving their schooldays behind.

More than 160 people took part in the event to recall their days at the former Alderman Wraith Grammar School in Spennymoor.

About 40 attended a lunch at the school, now Spennymoor Comprehensive, in Whitworth Road, and 160 enjoyed a dinner-dance at the town hall on Saturday.

Pam Taylor, a business consultant from Newton Aycliffe, organised the events after tracing old school friends on the website www.friendsreunited.com.

Dozens more people contacted Ms Taylor after an appeal was printed in The Northern Echo to trace those without Internet access.

Ms Taylor, who left the school in 1965, was amazed with the response she received after sending an email to all past pupils, who left between 1957 and 1970.

She said: "It was wonderful to make contact with people who lost touch years ago. Some travelled from as far away as Australia and South Africa.

"It was amazing to see what everyone is doing, many have families and there are a whole range of professions. But the best thing was seeing people meet even though they haven't spoken for around 40 years."