A TRUE community celebration took place as a Cotswolds primary school celebrated its 175th birthday in style.

People pulled out all the stops for Ebrington Primary School's milestone anniversary, with residents of all generations coming together to join the celebrations on Monday.

Children had been working on a special history project which culminated in a 'living history day', where they experienced first hand what it was like to live like a Victorian through lots of hands on activities and games.

Meanwhile a huge 175th birthday cake was baked especially for the celebrations and was cut by three octogenarian former pupils, Brenda Faulkner - who still lives in Ebrington - Betty Spossini and Pat Beasley.

Plenty of pupils past turned up to mark the occasion too, including guest of honour Ron Langston, a successful motor racing driver.

Mr Langston, who was brought up in nearby Hidcote and used to walk to Ebrington School, arrived on his motorbike to cheers from pupils who lined his path.

Mr Langston, who now lives in Chipping Campden, made a sensational debut at the Manx Grand Prix in 1959, finishing second in the junior event.

He then moved to side-car racing and, with his team-mate, went on to be crowned British champions five times.

During the celebrations he cut a ribbon to officially open new play equipment that Ebrington PTFA fundraised for last year.

Former pupils from as far back as the 1930s attended the celebrations, rubbing shoulders with current pupils and even some from the next generation who are due to start in September.

Ebrington WI attended to give the children a day of interactive activities and games so they got the chance to dress up and experience first-hand what it was like to attend the school in in the Victorian era.

Pupils had the chance to learn about the food, school days, measures and weights using a whole range of implements brought in by Pearl Mitchell and Margaret Fisher and other members of the WI and community.

There was a talk about wartime stories from earlier school days and a detailed photographic exhibition that brought Ebrington School’s rich history to life for them.

The new chairman of the board of governors, Brian Bartlett told the crowds he is already looking forward to celebrating the 200 year anniversary in the future.

Cerys Purser, who runs the school choir, led the children in a singalong for the gathered crowds.

Claire Alexander, of Ebrington PTFA, said: "It was a fitting tribute to a brilliant school with excellent teachers.

"It was lovely to celebrate the pupils from the past, hear the stories and we look forward to welcoming all the new children in the future."