A CANVEY secondary school launched its 50th anniversary celebrations in style with a 50s theme day.

Students went to school dressed in 1950s clothing, had themed lessons, a special dinner and a disco after school as part of the event.

The disco played the top 50 songs nominated by staff and students.

A time capsule was buried in the centre court yard of the school.

Castle Point mayor Tony Belford laid the first spade full of earth on top of the lead coated capsule. Mr Belford said: "It is a pleasure to be involved in the celebration of 50 years of Furtherwick Park School and particularly the burying of a time capsule at the school site.

"I commend the enthusiasm of students and staff who have contributed both to the material contained within the capsule and also to those who attended the ceremony in 1950s dresses.

"This capsule is a historical legacy for the future. It recognises 50 years of success at Furtherwick Park school".

Inside the capsule is an attendance list of all staff and students of the school on the day, upper and lower schools and prefect's ties, student diaries about their day in school, school newsletters, pictures of school life and a CD with school documents on it.

Some of the students stood and watched as the time capsule was being buried by the mayor.

Headteacher Wendy Missons said: "It has been an excellent day and the students have enjoyed experiencing school life in the 50s!"