Generations of former King's pupils shared happy memories at the top Macclesfield School's Gala Dinner, with guests flying in from California, Maryland and Italy for the event.

Always a special occasion in the 521-year-old school's calendar, the event attracted an eager, sell-out attendance. Held for the first time at the King's School's stunning 80-acrea campus on Alderley Road, former pupils aged 18 to 81 were all of the same mind.

Richard Garner, 79, who left what was then Macclesfield's Grammar School in 1963, said: "Our school was wonderful, but this is something else altogether. I hope today's pupils appreciate everything they have here."

While Jussi-Peter Hill, 18, who left last summer to go up to Durham University, said: "I wanted to come back to say thank you. Not only did I have a great time here, but it enabled me to earn a place at a top university."

Mark O'Connor, who left in 1980, added: "The open space and the stunning facilities are amazing." While parent Emma Hannah added: "Our children absolutely love it here, especially the swimming pool. There are some amazing facilities both inside and outside the classroom."

King's award winning catering team put on a fabulous three course meal, while brilliant concert violinist and former pupil Laura Embrey entertained the revellers with her virtuoso musicianship.

There was a family feel to the event, with Sky Sports presenter Di Stewart, whose nephew attends King’s, compèring the evening and sharing a table with her sisters, and former pupil and Sale Sharks rugby player Tommy Taylor providing the after dinner talk. Tommy, who earned an England cap in 2016, comes from a long line of King’s pupils, with his grandfather, father, brother and uncles all having attended the school. His father and brother Jack were both at the dinner along with one of Tommy’s former school rugby coaches John Percival.

Head of the King's Foundation Jason Slack said: "It was a wonderful night. I have been here for four years but it’s the first such Former Pupils' Gala Dinner I have had the pleasure to attend."