School pupils prepare for big event

HOORAY for Hollywood at Holywells!

The Ipswich high school in Lindbergh Road is preparing to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee with a summer ball on a movie theme.

A special commemorative yearbook is also being published. Past pupils, governors and staff have joined forces and formed the Holywells Former Pupils' Association (HFPA) to co-ordinate the project.

"We'll be holding the ball at Ipswich Town Hall on June 21 and it's going to be a really big event – we're hoping 200 people will go along," said parent-governor Marie Waller, who is chairwoman of the HFPA.

"Everybody will be wearing ball gowns and dinner jackets and we are hoping to invite well-known former pupils. Ipswich Town player Titus Bramble is one name who comes to mind, although we don't know whether he'll be free."

The association is keen to hear from students, parents and staff of Holywells who have stories or items of interest that could be included in the yearbook. Local businesses are also being invited to sponsor the publication.

"We would particularly like to hear about the success stories that have come out of Holywells as well as any humorous tales and of course memories of old friends and teachers," said Mrs Waller, 37, who is co-ordinating the project together with former pupil Marina Thomas, 20, now a university student.

"We are also looking for old photographs of school events to illustrate the book.

"Holywells school has a very strong community of former pupils and a committed staff and governing body. Working together we are determined to raise the profile of the school and the Queen's Golden Jubilee is the perfect opportunity to do something new and different for Holywells."

If you have a contribution for the yearbook or want to find out more about sponsorship, or would like to be added to the HFPA mailing list, please write to HFPA, c/o Holywells High School, Lindbergh Road, Ipswich IP3 9PZ, or contact the association by e-mail at this address: HFPA@talk21.com