Luke Myer MP has visited his old college, Prior Pursglove College in Guisborough today (Thursday 25 June) to mark its 465th anniversary.

The celebration included the planting of a new commemorative tree and the burial of a time capsule in the garden at the front of the Endeavour building. The event recreated a moment from 1933, when a tree was planted by the Duke of Kent during the college’s grammar school years. This year’s planting also honoured Thomas Vernon Raine, a former student from that period and a war hero, with family members in attendance.

Luke also had the chance to view the college’s archives and artefact exhibition, which included items from the early 1900s and told the story of education at Prior during its grammar school history.

Luke Myer MP said:

“It was a real pleasure to be back at Prior Pursglove to mark 465 years of local education.

“Prior has been part of Guisborough’s story for centuries, helping generations of young people learn, grow and take their next steps in life. As a former student, it means a lot to see Prior still playing such an important role in our community.

“Looking at the extraordinary archive materials, you get a real sense of how much the college has meant to the town and to families across the area.

“My thanks go to all the staff, particularly historian Richard Blom, as well as the students and everyone involved in making the anniversary celebrations so special.”