AN open-air communion service has been held to celebrate the festival of a school’s patron saint .

Pupils, parents and teachers joined churchmen and churchgoers in the playground at St Michael’s C of E Prep School, Leigh to markStMichael’sDay As part of the event, headmaster Stephen Tompkins led the gathering on a traditional processional circuit around Hadleigh Road, Lapwater Close and London Road.

Each pupil waved a colourful St Michael’s Day flag or pennant, decorated with crepe ribbons.

Nursery pupils carried hearts, reception class pupils showed Michaelmas daisies, Year 1 produced dragon designs and the rest of the school carried pennants depicting St Michael.

Father Ian Booth, chairman of the governors joined the procession and officiated at thecommunion servicewhich followed.

He told the school the dayof celebration was “an opportunity to spread love, care and compassion”.

Six pupil servers helped at the St Michael’s Day communion service.

Mr Tompkins said: “St Michael’s Day is always a joyous occasion and a real highlight of the school year.

“It encapsulates the school’s ethos, as we come together to celebrate and give thanks for our school.

“Memories of St Michael’s Daylive long in the livesof the children.”

Celebrations continued with a party for pupils in the afternoon and an evensong and dinner for parents, friends, staff and pupils at the