THE sun shone on more than 82 grandparents who attended Halwill Primary School’s first ‘Grandparents’ Day’ on Wednesday, March 27.

It was a wonderful day during which the children thoroughly enjoyed welcoming their grandparents and sharing the work they have been doing in class.

Mrs Ruh Alford, executive headteacher, said: “We organised this day because children have a special relationship with their grandparents; one that is different to the relationship they have with their own parents.

“I am overwhelmed by the number of grandparents who have come today to support their grandchildren and Halwill Primary School. Many live locally and have connections with the school but a good number have travelled from far and wide, some as far as Manchester. However, they were beaten by a grandmother who flew especially from Turkey to be here today!”

Devon County Council Holsworthy Ward member Cllr Barry Parsons also attended Grandparents’ Day. Cllr Parsons has supported Halwill Primary School on many occasions and recently helped the school in acquiring new fencing and gates to secure the safety of the school site.

The day began with a presentation from the children. It was back to school for the grandparents as the Year 5 and 6 pupils gave a lesson in science, confidently explaining the workings of the eye by conducting an experiment with the grandparents, much to their surprise and amusement.

This was followed by a musical tribute from Year 3 and 4 pupils to King Henry VIII. Year 1 and 2 pupils read their diary entries about ‘The Great Fire of London’ and Reception children performed a vibrant and colourful Indian dance in celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi.

Grandparents were also treated to a recital which included solos and duets on the piano, guitars and ukuleles.

When the day ended, with a delicious pork lunch, one grandparent commented that it was ‘so lovely to have the opportunity to visit Halwill Primary School’ and that lunches have certainly improved since their day — no more boiled cabbage!