CELEBRATIONS were in order at Ghyll Royd, as the preparatory school reached its first anniversary in its new home.

It is one year since the school upped sticks from Ilkley and moved to Greystone Manor, in Burley-in-Wharfedale.

The school has double reason to toast its success as it was almost closed for good three years ago. Parents rallied to rescue the school at the eleventh hour and now help run it as a non-profit making charitable trust.

Since moving to Burley, the school has installed state of the art teaching facilities.

A networked IT system has been installed, which connects every classroom.

Pupils also have permanent access to the internet and correspondence programmes with youngsters on the other side of the world.

The newly refurbished school also enjoys six acres of sports fields, play areas and woodlands.

Jennifer Bonner, head teacher of the school, said: "It is hard to believe we have been here for a year. So many things have changed since we took residence.

"When we moved in we did not quite know what to expect. The building was not finished.

"Now we look forward to coming to school. We have such a wonderful environment to work in.

"We have seen so many changes. It has all been a team effort between staff, parents and pupils. We can sit back and breathe and see our hard labours of this last year come to fruition."

Pupils marked the milestone with a party and a giant birthday cake, made by Sandra Turner, the school cook.

Mrs Bonner said: "The boys are had a

special birthday lunch with birthday cake.

" The art club have made us an embroidered shield of our school and we were very pleased to accept that. So the boys have had a very hands on way of celebrating."

A celebration service was also held at St Mary's Parish Church, in Burley.