A NORTH East school brought generations of students together for a special Christmas lunch – including the head boy from more than 50 years ago.
Parkside Academy, in Willington, hosted its annual OAP Christmas Party, a beloved tradition in the local community.
Among the guests was Robert Lee, who served as Head Boy of what was then Parkside School in 1970, and his wife, Michelle. Together they joined dozens of local residents to enjoy the festivities.
Mr Lee served as Head Boy of what was then Parkside School in his final year in 1970. While there, he and Michelle met at age 13, and their children and grandchild have all also attended the school.
“I’m glad all our kids came here – the school’s been brilliant with all of them. It’s a great community, and the people round about love the school.”
The youth football coach, now aged 70
“When we met all that time ago at Parkside, we never thought we’d be back here again all these years later. We’ll be celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary next September!”
Michelle
The event at the school, which is part of the Advance Learning Partnership, also marked another milestone for one guest. Annie Blake, a local resident, took time out from celebrating her 69th wedding anniversary to attend the party.
She received a warm tribute from the school’s head of music, Jonathan Fenwick, who led a toast in her honour, and the student band dedicated their rendition of Oasis’s Half The World Away to her.
Visitors enjoyed a variety of other performances, including covers of popular songs by the Parkside guitar band, and were served lunch by student volunteers. The event was also compered by pupils Keira Robinson and Luke Hutchinson.
“Parkside Academy holds a very special place at the heart of a very close-knit, very neighbourly community. Hosting this event gives both staff and pupils great joy, and reinforces our invaluable links with our local area.
Donna Heslop, Parkside’s school counsellor who organised the event
“We’re immensely grateful to everyone who attended, those who helped organise the day, and especially the pupils who did a marvellous job looking after and entertaining our guests. They represented our school with great aplomb.”
