IT was all set to be a grand event, the first time former schoolmates had seen each other for 40 years.

But, after spending hours pounding the streets around Worcestershire putting up posters, Stephanie Tarplee was horrified to discover the venue had closed down.

With more than 60 people due to attend Pershore Secondary Modern 1961-66 school reunion next week, Mrs Tarplee was distraught that months of organising seemed to come to nothing.

The venue, the popular nightspot Chicago Rock Caf, in New Street, Worcester, suddenly closed its doors a fortnight ago.

Mrs Tarplee, now of Warndon Villages, Worcester, said: "I just burst into tears when I came back from holiday and read it had shut.

"Some of the people coming haven't seen each other for 40 years."

But the Eagle Vaults pub, in Friar Street, which has promised to lay on a buffet, saved the day.

The reunion will still take place on Friday, September 30, at 8pm. Call Mrs Tarplee (nee Cowley) on 01905 28094 for details.

or Pat Clarke (nee Shramm) on 01386 554948.

We were all eagerly looking forward to it and I'd put up posters all over the place in Worcester, Pershore, Evesham, Tewksbury, etc.