A SCHOOL is calling past May Queens, cavaliers and dancers to join them for a special occasion.

Oak Apple Day Reunion will take place on Friday, May 24. This is always a special event in the school calendar which has been celebrated at Elmley Castle C E First School for 150 years - this year it will be even bigger with a past pupils and staff reunion maypole and picnic lunch.

Nadia Underwood, Head of School said “We encourage ex May Queens, Cavaliers and seasoned Maypole Dancers to return to school and take part in an entertaining and riotous trip down memory lane.”

The timetable for the day is as follows:

· 10am – School Parade leaves from school followed by ceremony and dancing in the village square.

· 11.45 - 1pm Picnic and Cream Teas (In the case of bad weather, the picnic will take place in the village hall.)

· 1.30pm Reunion Maypole in school playground

· An informal rehearsal is scheduled for Sunday May 19. No rehearsal is necessary to take part on the day.

Ms Underwood said: “It is with great excitement that Elmley Castle C. E. First School and the whole community mark the 150th anniversary year of the new school building. Back in 1869, the community came together for a celebration of thanksgiving in St. Marys Church and likewise, we are marking this momentous date with a number of celebratory events through the year, bringing together as many ex-pupils, staff, parents, grandparents and members of the local community as possible.

We will also be raising funds to upgrade a key area of the school’s external grounds, which will not only leave a lasting legacy in memory of the 150th anniversary year but will give our children superior outdoor facilities to use and enjoy.”

On Saturday June 8, 1pm until 4pm, there will be a traditional Victorian fun fair with a carousel, traditional games, a sweet stall and more. Saturday, June 22 will see The Big Summer Bash. The 150th evening celebrations are being held in a marquee on Elmley Castle Cricket Field. On Sunday September 22 there is a Thanksgiving service and photographic exhibition at St Mary the Virgin Church, Elmley Castle. It is a 4pm service, followed by tea.