Great Cornard: Fun-filled day and a bobble hat challenge to celebrate 40 years of middle school

An unusual record bid resulted in some unseasonally warm clothing being worn in west Suffolk at the weekend.

As part of Great Cornard Middle School’s 40th anniversary celebrations, teachers, pupils, parents and other people in the community tried to enter the record books for the most people in one place wearing a bobble hat.

Despite missing out by about 70 people – they managed 683 – school governor Kirsti Leeder said it was still a “lovely day” and hopes the occasion will stand out among the pupils’ memories of their school, which is closing in July.

She said: “We had a really good day and that was what we wanted. We wanted to do something for the children to remember... and something for them to be proud of.”

As well as the record attempt, there were performances by pupils and former pupils, a fair ground and face painting.

Great Cornard Middle School headteacher, Grace Williams, said the day had been emotional, but “we are trying to make that a very positive thing and a celebration of the 40 years rather than doom and gloom”.

She added: “And it’s kind of a thank you to the community for how supportive they have been to the school”.

The bobble hats will be donated to Operation Christmas Child’s shoe box appeal.