A FUN-FILLED afternoon of entertainment marked half a century of success for a west Dorset special school.

Staff, parents and friends gathered together on Friday to celebrate 50 years of education at Mountjoy School in Beaminster. From its early years in Bridport to its current purpose built building in Beaminster, Mountjoy has played a leading part of education in west Dorset for five decades

Mountjoy School caters for children with a range of complex needs including Autistic Spectrum Disorders and moderate to severe learning difficulties.

Mountjoy headteacher Jackie Shanks paid thanks to those who helped the 50th anniversary celebrations take place.

She said: “We are lucky to receive so much support from the local community and the 50 year anniversary is a golden opportunity to have some fun together.

"Our grateful thanks go to all the staff, parents and friends who are giving their support and time, without whom this event would not be possible.”

The celebrations included tours of the school, music, light refreshments as well as children playing hand bells and 'The Bubble Man'.

Opening the celebrations was Burton Bradstock-based singer and songwriter, Billy Bragg. Billy was on hand to mark the opening of the celebrations and paid tribute to the work that staff at Mountjoy School have done over the past 50 years.

Mountjoy School was originally opened in Flood Lane, Bridport in 1967. The school spent 45 years in the town, before moving to its new purpose-built premises in Tunnel Road, Beaminster in 2012.

In its latest Ofsted inspection, which took place last year, Mountjoy school was judged as 'good' overall and was marked as 'outstanding' for personal development, behaviour and welfare.

The Friends of Mountjoy School was formed in 1994. The small group of volunteers includes parents, school staff, former members of staff and other interested people. The group helps and supports the school in order to fundraise, organise events for parents and friends and to raise awareness of the school.

The next event is the summer fair, which will be held on Saturday, June 17, from 1pm until 4pm, at the school.

For more information, visit mountjoy.dorset.sch.uk