There were tears and cheers at four schools last week as pupils and staff packed up their books for the last time.

Ilkley, Burley-in-Wharfedale, and Addingham middle schools closed on Friday as part of the changes throughout Bradford from a three to a two-tier education system, writes Sam Strangeways.

The majority of staff and children will move to Ilkley Grammar and local primary schools in September, although some teachers will move further afield.

The four schools, who all held special final assemblies, have achieved their best ever Standard Assessment Tests results this year.

Burley Middle School headmaster, Angus MacIntosh, 56, said: "I have very mixed feelings about today. We have had a brilliant final year with great results.

"My own children attended this school so its very sad to see it close.

"But it's good to go out on a high," added Mr MacIntosh, who is retiring.

Another retiring headmaster, Brian Hall, 55, of Addingham Middle School, said he felt relief at the school's closure.

"I do feel very sad - I've been here for 21 years, since the school was built.

"But it's a relief to see it close, as we've known about it for 18 months. Its been a kind of slow torture.

"We have had a phenomenal final year though."

Ilkley Middle School headmaster, Richard Jennings, 47, will move to Ilkley Grammar as Head of Lower School.

"I feel sad about today but one needs to rise to the challenge," he said.

"The professionalism of the staff will ensure that the children's education doesn't suffer. I think this is a positive day - a celebration of the life of the school."

Pupils also had mixed feelings about the closure of the schools.

Ilkley pupil Joe Millar, 13, of Little Lane, said: "I feel sorry that the school is closing down. It's a shame for the teachers that work here."

But Addingham pupil Alison Thwaites, 13, of Moor Lane, was more upbeat."It is upsetting because it's the end of an era," she said.

"But I'm also really excited about going to the grammar school."

After a day of activities, speeches and awards, children and staff at the schools waved goodbye and set off for an extra-long summer break.

l Burley-in-Wharfedale C of E Primary School also closed its gates on Friday - after 102 years.

And head master Glynne Edwards, only the fourth headteacher the school has ever had, is retiring after 27 years.

Pupils and staff joined together to make him a sculpture of the school hall as a parting gift.

"I am very sad to see the children go and the school close," said Mr Edwards, 60.

"But I am pleased that they are going to newer and better premises. I'd like to thank everyone who has ever been connected with the school."

Next term most of the school's pupils and staff will move to Burley Oaks Primary, on the site of the village's middle school.