More than 100 people gathered to watch the traditional Rose Queen crowning at an Oswaldtwistle primary school.

Moor End Primary School is believed to be one of the last remaining schools in the area to celebrate the tradition, which began in the 1950s.

Many of the parents, and even grandparents and great-grandparents watching the proceedings had memories of their own parts in the Moor End Rose Queen Ceremony.

Among them was former teaching assistant Hazel Wilkinson, who returned to the school and crowned the new Queen Emma McKay.

She explained that part of the dress used today, the long flowing train, was originally used by herself in a similar celebration in 1953.

Hazel, who attends every year, said: “There are no longer many schools celebrating this tradition, with the Maypole dancing, and Queen crowning. Moor End have always done this and will continue to do so. It’s lovely.”

The summer ceremony, which involves the reception class and all the children in Key Stage One, includes a flower procession and finally a series of traditional May Pole dances.

Rachel McClure, chair of governors at the school, added: “It is always a pleasure to go and watch our young key stage one pupils in this ceremony, the weather was kind to us this year, and it was a proud afternoon for me.”