TO mark its 120th birthday, Durham High School for Girls has organised a range of celebrations, which began with a service yesterday morning.

Yesterday also saw the school's Junior House pupils donning the outfits of their early Victorian counterparts before setting off on a visit to Beamish Museum.

In the afternoon, a grand picnic was held by Senior House in the grounds of the school, at Farewell Hall on the outskirts of the city.

Last night, a birthday ball was held at Ramside Hall Hotel, attended by governors, staff, parents and members of the upper sixth who will shortly be leaving school.

Today, there will be a birthday lunch for old girls when everyone will be able to view the school and later attend a fun day.

The fun day will be opened by former pupil Joanna Burton, who is now a professional opera singer.

This afternoon, there will be a fancy dress parade and junior school pupils will once again turn out in their Victorian costume.