Former pupils, teachers, and governors of Queen Mary’s School joined present pupils and staff for a service at Ripon Cathedral to mark the 25 years since the school moved to its location at Baldersby Park, Topcliffe.

The independent day and boarding school was established 85 years ago, but in 1985 it moved from its original base at Duncombe Park, Helmsley, to the Palladian building, near Thirsk.

Robert McKenzie Johnston, the head teacher, said: “This is an important day for us all and from talking to former pupils and staff, it’s clear that the Queen Mary’s ethos remains the same, but with a modern attitude and outlook. That continuity is reflected in the fact that many former students now send their own children to the school.”

The school’s chapel choir sang a piece written by choral conductor and organist Dr Simon Lindley, organist at Leeds Parish Church and of Leeds Town Hall, who also attended the service. The choir was conducted by Nicholas Carter, the school’s director of music, who has taught at Queen Mary’s for 32 years.

In addition to Mr Carter, two other members of the school’s current staff who also taught at Duncombe Park were present.

PE teacher Hilary Hepworth joined the school in 1975, and Chris Wiggins, head of geography, started in 1983.