SCHOOL leavers danced the night away as they said goodbye to school at a ball.

St Mary's School, in Lexden Road, Colchester, hosted the event for the Year 11 pupils in a marque in its grounds.

The girls, who were dressed in glamorous gowns, arrived in style in vintage cars, stretch limos and even a Rolls Royce.

A DJ provided the tunes, with a cooling treat of a visit from the ice cream van.

The students bid a fond farewell to the school.

Hilary Vipond, principal, said: “This key, annual event marks the end of an era for our Year 11 girls.

"They have worked extremely hard in their final year of studies at St Mary’s and the Leavers’ Ball is the perfect send-off for them.

"We wish them every success for the future, and look forward to seeing them back in school for the GCSE Awards evening in November.”