Bare-shouldered prom princesses put on brave smiles as they arrived for Stalham High School year 11's last hurrah in conditions more like mid September than high summer.

This evening's strong winds and rain were the least welcome arrivals at The Old Rectory Hotel, Crostwick, where 51 of the 89-strong year group gathered for their prom.

As usual, the annual event had been organised by the students themselves, with head girl Victoria Hicks, 16, in charge this year, supported by staff member Donna Wright.

Prom-goers enjoyed a sit-down meal followed by a DJ and dancing.

A few of the students arrived by limousine, or in sports cars, including a Porsche. But the school has a tradition of celebrating leavers' day earlier in the term, reserving their daft or stylish modes of transport for that event.

Among those sheltering under brollies to watch tonight's arrivals was Amy Webb, who will take over as acting head of the school in September, until it becomes an academy in January.

Other staff members present included Gary Olley, key stage four co-ordinator.

He said: 'This is their last event as a year group before they go their separate ways.

'A lot of these students have been together since primary school - and some day-care before that. The next time they come together will be at their GCSE presentation evening in November.'

The school was rated 'inadequate' in February but Ofsted inspectors have praised recent improvements and predict that there will be a significant improvement in GCSE grades this summer.