A SPECIAL school in Worcester, which will close this summer, is inviting former students, parents and staff to a celebratory party next month.

Manor Park School in Turnpike Close is one of three special schools in the city, along with Rose Hill and Thornton House, that will close and re-open as two schools later in the year.

Headteacher Dave Palmer said: "Manor Park School has been providing education for children with a severe learning disability for more than 30 years but only as a school since 1971.

"The school started life in Sherwood Lane, Worcester, as a junior training centre under the Department Of Health And Social Security.

"Manor Park School moved to its current site in Turnpike Close in September 1987 following the last big reorganisation of special school provision in the city."

"At the end of this term the school will close, along with Rose Hill and Thornton House and they will re-open as Regency High School and Fort Royal Community Primary School."

Governors, staff, parents and children want to celebrate the dawn of the new era for the schools by inviting anybody associated with the school in the past and the present to a special event on Thursday, July 12, from 4pm to 8pm at Manor Park School.

There will be entertainment and live rock music and a bar. Nandos is providing a barbecue meal.

Mr Palmer said: "If you are an ex-student, parent, member of staff, friend, governor or have been associated with Manor Park School in any way you will be very welcome.

If you would like more details or want to tell us you are coming please phone the school on 01905 423403 or e-mail us at office@manor park.worcs.sch.uk by Monday, July 2.