A PRIMARY school in Yate is inviting former pupils and staff back to lessons before it closes later this year.

Rodford Primary School, on Barnwood Road, is due to shut at the end of the summer term in July in response to falling pupil numbers.

South Gloucestershire Council carried out a consultation with parents, staff and governors at the school and neighbouring Kings Court Primary School last year. Despite a bitter campaign to save Rodford, the authority decided to close the smaller school and amalgamate it with Kings Court. Pupils will be automatically transferred to Kings Court or parents can apply for a place elsewhere.

Before the closure, the school is holding an open afternoon to celebrate Rodford’s history.

It takes place on Saturday, March 27 (2-5pm) at the school.

Acting headteacher Jo Williams said: "We are inviting back any pupils who left before 1990 and any old staff.

"The school will be open for people to see how the school has changed, look at old photographs as well as give people the opportunity to catch up with long lost friends and colleagues.

"We would welcome any stories or memories that people may have of their time at Rodford that we can share with our current pupils."