WHEN it comes to celebrations, they really don’t get more glamorous than prom and Bedford High School’s annual leavers’ extravaganza was a stylish affair.

After five years of hitting the books, it was time for smart suits, glittering gowns, big cars and even bigger hair as the current Year 11 bowed out in fine style.

This year’s graduates basked under the summer sun in the stylish surroundings of The Haydock Mercure Hotel on one of the hottest nights of the year.

Fresh from exam season, the young party-goers pulled out all the stops, arriving in a cavalcade of classic cars including Porsches, BMWs and the obligatory stretch limo. The only things flasher than the fast cars were the designer clothes, supercool sunglasses and that end-of-school swagger.

And while it was party-central for all concerned, the evening was about much more than dressing up to the nines. It was chance for the leavers to look back on the great times at Bedford High and say a final fond farewell to their school days.

Bedford head boy Mackenzie Wood, said: “Bedford has been like a second home to us. It’s the most amazing school and I feel lucky that I was able to go there.”

“I will never forget the friends I have made and some of the experiences we have all enjoyed. Our teachers have been tremendous role models and have helped us every step of the way.”

Whilst for head girl Maiya Libbey, it was the support she was given during exam time that meant the most.

She said: “All the encouragement we have been given and all the extra revision sessions have really helped. I cannot thank my teachers enough. It has been tough going at times but I know my teachers have been behind me and I am really hoping it pays off for me on results day.”

After arriving at the hotel, the VIPs mingled in the evening sunshine before heading for the marquee to begin a special night of celebrations.

Then it was time to dance the night away as the revellers got the chance to let their hair down and celebrate good times and new beginnings.

Bedford High School Headteacher Helen Phillips said she was immensely proud of all the leavers.

She said: “It seems like only yesterday that these young men and women walked through the gates of our school for the very first time.

"They were nervous, they didn’t know what to expect and they knew it was time to work hard to achieve their goals. Five years on and they have lived up to all expectations.

"They have made the transition from childhood to become young adults and they are all excellent ambassadors for our school. Our Year 11 leavers are a credit to their parents and guardians and their families can be rightly proud of everything they have accomplished. "They leave Bedford with our best wishes and while it’s is always difficult to say goodbye, we know they will be back to see us often to tell us how well they are doing.”