Children at a primary school were delighted when a special guest turned up to celebrate the opening of their new building.
Simonside Primary School, in Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle, officially opened its new site on Friday - and Newcastle United goalkeeper Mark Gillespie came along to do the honours.
The footballer was joined by more than 60 guests as pupils and staff marked the special occasion. As well as talking to the youngsters, he took time out to take some spot kicks with them.
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Head teacher Louise Thompson said the new school facilities were outstanding and purpose built to ensure children received the best education.
She added: "We are delighted to be able to officially open our new school today. It has been so carefully designed from the spacious halls, engaging libraries, calm colour choices, careful layout of classrooms, specialist learning spaces and the outstanding outside learning spaces.
"All these aspects are enabling our children to have the very best education in a purpose-built environment.
"This is our new home in which to build on the legacy of Simonside and all the achievements the school has made past and present. Our motto of Dream, Believe and Achieve continues to thrive and we cannot wait to see the future unfold."
Plans to construct the new building were approved by the city council in December 2019. The former Simonside Community Centre was demolished to allow the new primary school to be built there.
Pupils were able to move in from September last year. The official opening celebration and an open day was organised for Friday when guests were able to see the new facilities.
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