Alton Infant School welcomed East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds to celebrate its 160th anniversary and honour headteacher Richard Mead.

Mr Mead is retiring after five years leading the school and 30 years in education.

Also attending an event to mark both occasions were representatives of Alton Lions Club plus 400 pupils, family members, staff, governors and members of the wider school community.

Mr Mead was presented with gifts from pupils, families, staff and governors. There were two planting activities - one in the Reception class playground, where a sensory area was created with a Lions donation, and one in the main playground as part of plans to transform outdoor spaces for learning, play and wellbeing.

Mr Mead said: "It has been a privilege to lead Alton Infant School, a school with such a strong family feel, and to work alongside staff, governors, pupils and families who care so deeply about helping every child be the best they can be.

"I am hugely grateful to everyone who helps support the school and make it such a special place. It was wonderful to welcome Damian and our friends from Alton Lions to celebrate this important moment with us and to share more about the school and our plans for the future.

"I was also incredibly touched by the anniversary celebration and the warmth shown by pupils, families, staff, governors and the wider community. Thank you to everyone who helped make it such a memorable occasion and for the many kind messages, gifts and good wishes I have received as I prepare to retire."

Stacey Serdet will become headteacher in September.

Mrs Serdet said: "I am delighted to be joining Alton Infant School at such an exciting time in its history.

"It is clear this is a school with a proud heritage, a strong sense of community and a real commitment to educating the whole child. I have been made to feel incredibly welcome and I am very much looking forward to working with staff, pupils, governors and families as we continue to build on the school's success."

Damian Hinds said: "It was a pleasure to join Alton Infant School as it celebrates its 160th anniversary.

"Richard Mead has given many years of dedicated service to the school, and I wish him every happiness in his retirement. I am also delighted to welcome Stacey Serdet as the new headteacher.

"It was fantastic to see the school's ambitious plans to transform its outdoor spaces, creating even more opportunities for children to reach their full potential, and to celebrate this special milestone alongside pupils, staff, governors and Alton Lions."

Chair of governors Roisin Pope added: "This year is a celebration of both our heritage and our future.

"We are incredibly grateful to Richard for his dedication and leadership, which have helped shape the school we are today.

“We are delighted to welcome Stacey as our new headteacher and look forward to building on that success as we continue to invest in opportunities that help children grow in confidence, independence and a lifelong love of learning."