CENTURIES of tradition came to an end yesterday when girls were admitted to a top public school for the first time, in a move dogged by controversy.

The Royal Grammar School in Newcastle has been boys-only for more than 450 years and the decision to allow girls into the school's sixth form has angered some former pupils.

The stone-built school, founded in 1545, has produced a series of famous old boys, including Lord Peter Taylor, Admiral Collingwood, Radio Four presenter Brian Redhead, former chairman of NatWest Bank, Neville Windless, and historian Sir Richard Southers.

But the wooden halls and classrooms are now echoing to the sound of girls' voices.

The move was originally planned for next year but it was brought forward and 21 girls have been admitted to this year's sixth form of 158 pupils.

Michael Ord, a 43-year-old lawyer with two sons, Stephen, 17, and David, 15, at the school, is an RGS old boy. He criticised the decision to admit girls and questioned the motives behind the move.

Mr Ord said: "The great sadness is that at a time when boys are struggling to keep pace with girls academically the last boys-only school of its type in this city has gone."

The girls were in optimistic mood as they began their first full day of classes.

Samantha Lowerson, 16, who is taking A-levels in English literature, philosophy, politics and classical civilisation, said: "I'm very excited to be here, it is an historic event for us all. I feel quite honoured to be here, with the reputation of the school.