THE official launch party to mark the 450th anniversary of Prior Pursglove College brought together young and old to kick start the festivities.

Lesley Hunter, the oldest known former student at Guisborough Grammar School, the former name of the college, was on hand to cut the cake and get the party started.

He was joined by the youngest students at the college Leo Smith and Lewis Whitewood, both born on August 31, 1994.

The 90-year-old, RAF veteran from Billingham, joined the school in 1931 before joining the forces and carrying out 55 missions over Italy as a gunner on a light bomber aircraft.

He said: "I have got great memories of the school and I thoroughly enjoyed the sporting side of it all, playing football and rugby here.

"After I left, I joined the RAF and flew 55 missions across Italy. I lost one of my best friends, Les Cornforth, during the war and it was very poignant to see a picture of him in the cricket team, which is in the display."

Students released 450 purple balloons for the college's 'The Sky's the Limit' balloon race, with staff and students sponsoring a balloon hoping theirs will travel the furthest distance to win a cash prize.

Performing Arts students re-enacted the signing of the Charter by Queen Elizabeth I, a historical document dating back to June 5, 1561 which remains at the college today.

Principal Judy Burton said: "I think we are almost in a unique position of having being here uninterupted for that length of time.

"Today is a very important day because it is the start of our celebrations which will run through until May. The staff and students have arranged a number of events and we are hoping that everyone will enjoy the fun."

The culmination of the celebrations takes place on May 7 at the College and the Priory, which will include a procession through the town, Picnic in the Priory organised by Gisborough Priory Project, medieval fashion shows, Tudor music, archery, falconry, music and drama performances, displays, storytelling, tours, workshops and fun and games for all the family.

Other plans for the celebrations include: a fundraising dinner, an exhibition of historical artefacts and a series of historical lectures, a university challenge competition where teams of ex students, teachers and current students will battle it out to be crowned the winner, and the commissioning of a statue to commemorate the work of Robert Pursglove, the schools founder.

Anyone wanting to be involved in the events should call the school on 01287-280800.