A Maldon academy has celebrated 50 years since it merged two schools to become a secondary comprehensive school.

The Plume Academy was formed in 1970 as a new comprehensive to educate students previously at Maldon Grammar School and Maldon County Secondary School - a secondary modern.

Former staff and students of the academy celebrated the 50-year anniversary of the merger last week (Thursday, 18 November), where they were joined by Maldon MP John Whittingdale, the mayor David Ogg and his wife Sharon.

Principal Carl Wakefield took guests through the last 50 years of the Plume, while students and staff shared their experiences - past and present.

Year 8 student Elliot Rose co-hosted the event with Mr Wakefield, which was described as a "highly successful and engaging evening".

The school now houses a dedicated heritage and archive room, which has various memorabilia, photographs, written records, cups, shields and other interesting artefacts - these can be viewed by appointment.

Former students and staff are invited to tour the school by booking a time and day in advance with Chris Barton, the academy lead for marketing, media communications and community engagement, via email or by telephone.

Further details can be found on the Plume Academy website here.