A HISTORIC chorister school has appointed a new headmistress.

Yvette Day has taken over leading The Chorister School at Durham Cathedral, which is more than 600 years old.

Mrs Day, who was previously director of music at St George’s School, Windsor Castle, said: "I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to be part of this community.

"I have come to see that a chorister school education is unique. Rooted in the strong choral music tradition and the worship of God, all pupils - choristers and non-choristers alike - aspire to the achievement of goals far beyond their expectations.

"I am extremely grateful that I am stepping into a position where pupils, staff and parents clearly work so closely and well together.

"This is a school where the commitment to succeed is shared equally and the results speak for themselves."

The school takes boys and girls from nursery to 13-years-old. It was recently praised as outstanding in many areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

Former pupils include former Prime Minister Tony Blair, comedian Rowan Atkinson and businessman Sir Peter Vardy.

An open morning will be held at The Chorister School on Saturday from 9.30am to 11.30am.

For more information on becoming a Cathedral chorister, call 0191-3842935. Visit thechoristerschool.com