AN Evening News appeal has led to two old school friends being reunited and a huge party organised for former classmates.

Former pupils of the former St Martin's Old Boys School are being invited to the bash, organised by Ivor Gwilliam and Peter Smith.

The two friends were in the final year to attend the school before it was closed in 1961 and only regained touch after Mr Smith launched an appeal in the Evening News.

"I was doing a story with Memory Lane writer Mike Grundy about the old school, around 18 months ago," said 56-year-old Mr Smith.

"I asked him to put in a couple of lines mentioning Ivor's name because we had lost touch and I wanted to meet up with him again," he said.

"Ivor saw the article and had phone calls all afternoon from other people who had seen it.

"Then he rang me and, as we were talking, he said he lived in Worcester.

"I asked him whereabouts and it was basically just around the corner."

Through friends, they have managed to track down around 40 people and invited them all to the party.

"Different people that we have kept in touch with know others and that's how we've tracked down people, but we are keen to find others," said Mr Gwilliam, aged 55.

"The more people that want to come along the merrier. It should be a great night."

The party is being held on Saturday, November 2, at Tolladine Golf Club, from 7.30pm until late and costs £10.

Revellers will have chance to strut their stuff at a 50s and 60s disco and enjoy a buffet.

Any former pupils interested in the reunion should contact Peter Smith on 01905 454137.