A JUNIOR school in Hampshire celebrated its 40-year anniversary with platform boots, flares and a balloon launch.

Teachers and children at Sun Hill Junior School in Alresford turned back the clock and wore flowery costumes to celebrate the school’s ruby anniversary since it opened in 1973.

An exhibition showing some of the school's biggest achievements was held at the school while the community came out to see the 245 pupils stand in a shape of 40 before they released the red balloons at 2pm.

Parents at the school donated cup cakes for a ruby anniversary-themed party in the main hall while a mural was also unveiled for people to see.

Head teacher Neil MacKenzie said it was a “very, very special year for us”.

He added: “It’s been absolutely fantastic; a big ‘thank you’ to all the adults who helped make this happen. I think for the community it means a lot.”