MORE than 500 people attended a special service of commemoration at Worcester Cathedral to mark the centenary of a school.

Abberley Hall School in Great Witley arranged the event to launch its 100th anniversary celebrations.

Pupils, parents, friends, staff and former pupils from across the UK were all part of the congregation at the service which was followed by a reception and lunch back at the school and a political debate.

The discussion was between parent Mark Garnier, MP for Wyre Forest, and two former pupils who have gone on to become MPs - Philip Dunne, MP for Ludlow and Owen Paterson, MP for North Shropshire.

It was chaired by BBC diplomatic correspondent James Landale, another of Abberley’s well-known alumni.

Headmaster Will Lockett said: "This academic year marks an important milestone for Abberley Hall and we are thrilled to have started it in such a successful manner.

"The service of commemoration and thanksgiving, led by the Bishop of Worcester The Right Reverend Dr John Inge, was very special and it was wonderful to see so many people in attendance."

Mr Lockett said that a range of other events would be hosted during the next 10 months and that a centenary appeal to raise funds for various projects has also been launched.

The school, founded in 1916, now educates around 300 children aged from two to 13 from throughout the region and internationally.

“The breadth and depth of education we offer here at Abberley is unparalleled and we are proud to produce happy, confident and independent children,” he told guests at the school lunch.

"We have just enjoyed an exceptional year for scholarships, with the record number of 37 accolades being awarded to our children, and we will now go from strength to strength."