NESTLED in the heart of the tranquil village of Ombersley, lies a lively first school saturated rich in history.

As the youngsters celebrate their school's 127th anniversary with their annual Founder's Day, reporter Lisa Heritage pops along to the school to uncover the establishment's colourful background and history.

Although there has been a school in the village, near Droitwich for nearly 400 years, the present building was only built in 1876.

Set in fertile farmland and adjacent to the local tennis club, the school now boasts a total of 105 pupils, aged five to nine compared to between 30 and 60 longer than a century ago.

17th Century

The present school, in Droitwich Road is financed by an endowment left to the village by Richard Lloyd, the benefactor of the original 17th century school based in Main Road. It is now a private house and garage. The present establishment is still endowed by the Lloyd's Foundation, the administering body of the original trust. It is jointly run by a board of governors, the trust and the Local Education Authority.

Founder's Day started at the school in 2001 and is a joyous occasion where the pupils celebrate the opening and history of their school. Gillian Nixon has been headmistress for the past 17 years and was amazed at the changes that had taken place in her time at the helm.

She said: "When I first arrived at the school there were only two and a half classes whereas now we have five. We are having further alterations done to the school including a new head and secretary office."

She said that she has many fond memories of the school over the years including the nativity plays, the maypole dancing and particularly enjoys the Founder Days, she feels give the school a sense of identity.

"It's a fun event where children bring in cakes and learn all about the history of the school," she added.

The first school will be holding their open day for prospective pupils and their parents from 1.30pm on Wednesday, October 22. For details call 01905 620384.