GUESTS were bowled over by the achievements of Smithills School pupils at their annual presentation night.

So it was apt that guest speaker was Ronnie Irani, former England, Essex and Lancashire cricketer, was an old boy of the school.

The presentation evening took place in the Victoria Hall and newly retired headteacher Chris Roberts also attended to celebrate the achievements of the pupils.

The school’s World Champion Senior Brass Band began the evening by performing under its conductor, assistant headteacher Chris Wormald.

New headteacher Alec Cottrill introduced Mr Irani, who spoke about his five, “very happy years at Smithills” and encouraged pupils to always work hard, to strive to be the best they can and achieve as much as possible.

The presentations were divided into three sections and in between each of these, a short performance was made by the performing arts department.

Awards were presented for examination and individual subject success, excellent attendance, outstanding effort and special categories.

The evening ended with a presentation to Mr Irani.