A COMMUNITY came together when a school opened its doors for one last time.

On Saturday, Fort Hill Community School had an open day with more than 400 visitors popping in ahead of the school closing its doors for good at the end of this week.

Many of the visitors were past Fort Hill students from the very first cohort in 1977 to the last cohort, with ex-staff and members of the community also able to visit for one last time to reminisce and reconnect with old school acquaintances.

At the school, the Spencer Room was open with tables of photographs, memorabilia and trophies from Fort Hill’s history while visitors were encouraged to walk around the school grounds, with many meeting for a picnic and making the most of the glorious weather.

Trudy Hill, who organised the event, said: “I have enjoyed the final year at Fort Hill and being a tutor for a group of the final 96. Fort Hill is special to me as I spent five years there between 1982 and 1987.

"Saturday was the final opportunity to open Fort Hill to the many staff and students who have held it so dear over the last 40 years.

"The sun was shining and many people from all years came and met with old friends and staff. The field was filled with gazebos and picnics and there was a happy atmosphere for the reunions but also sad as the school closes its doors for the last time.”

Taryn Stovold, Fort Hill leaver 2018, said: “It was amazing to see so many generations of people all come together to say goodbye to Fort Hill.

Graham Hall, a student from 1985 to 1990 at the site, added: “The event was well attended and it was good to walk around the outside of the old school and bring back a few mixed memories. We saw a few old teachers including the very popular Gill Waller who seemed pleased to see everyone.”