A FLINTSHIRE primary school held a massive party for pupils' who missed out on celebrating with friends due to lockdown.

Many of us have had to sacrifice a ‘normal’ birthday celebration this year due to the ongoing coronavirus threat – including children – but the staff at Ysgol y Llan in Whitford (near Holywell) have spent a day making up for that.

Staff had noticed that a number of children were having to cancel birthday parties or have very limited numbers of friends help to celebrate their special days.

As a result of this, and after a suggestion from the deputy head teacher Nathan Williams, they decided to throw one big birthday party where the children could celebrate safely with their friends within their own contact groups.

Children came to school on Wednesday, October 14, and spent the day having a party with fun and games to mark the special days of at least 50 children and 10 staff members across the school family that were forced to have their birthday during lockdown conditions.

On the day, classrooms were decorated and children made party hats and exchanged handmade cards - the school cook even prepared a special lunch that day.

The morning started off with virtual birthday messages from celebrities – including BBC Radio One’s Scott Mills and Chris Stark as well as Team GB rower Victoria Thornley and Welsh rugby player Josh Adams.

Also passing on a message to children was Britain’s Got Talent finalists and Holywell-born classical duo Richard and Adam Johnson.

The afternoon saw a raft of party games for the children to enjoy – including pass the parcel and musical statues.

Commenting on the day’s success, Ysgol y Llan's head teacher Bryan Griffiths said: "I'm so proud about the way our school community has come together during our return to school. It has been a privilege to see to children settle in so quickly. It’s also been so reassuring to hear positive comments from parents about our return to school procedures along with recognition of how hard all of our staff have worked to ensure a safe return for all.

"Everyone has really come together to make this return to school as normal as can be and not stressful for any individual child or staff member.”

Safety remained the school's number one priority, in preparation for and, on the day. All resources were brought into school and were quarantined for at least 72 hours before the party.

Regular handwashing was in place at all times and all classes remained within their contact groups only when carrying out birthday celebrations.

Mr Griffiths added: "It will be a day to remember for all involved. A proud day for me also to be part of such a supportive community. We have since received so many positive comments from parents, colleagues and the local community about what a fantastic idea it was to bring a moment of cheer to everyone.

"I must thank all of the staff and parents for being so supportive and working hard behind the scenes and again on the day. Morale at the moment is high within our school community and that is great to see!”