A memorable gala night party was thrown by colleagues, friends and pupils – past and present – for Lillian Croston, who has retired as Principal of Westholme School in Blackburn.

Around 240 guests enjoyed an evening of warm tributes, a celebration dinner, entertainment, dancing and speeches marking more than 25 years of dedicated service to the school. There was one final surprise for the retiring Principal when it was revealed that the school theatre had been renamed The Croston Theatre in her honour