A West Cumbrian school made a fresh start as pupils sported their new uniform on the first day of the school year.

Netherhall School at Maryport sported their smart new uniform of claret and gold blazers, jersey, white shirt and ties after the fleece and polo combination was ditched.

The colours are the original colours of the school for years gone by and reflect the Roman heritage of the town.

Headteacher David Tromans said the new uniform, renovated school and impressive results in this summer's A-level and GCSE results had made this year feel like a fresh start.

He said: "The pupils are absolutely delighted with the change and they were the biggest driving force behind it.

"They were desperate for a better uniform and lobbied for an improved one since I started.

"It is significantly smarter.

"It's all part of that cultural change in the school and it's onward and upward now.

"I am really pleased with the summer results and everything the pupils achieved last year.

"The school's had a lot of renovation done so it looks fabulous and the children have noticed it."

Mr Tromans said the uniform was cheaper than the old uniform but better quality and had been produced with local firms.

To mark the occasion, the school's governors commissioned an aerial photographer of staff, pupils and governors positioned in the letters NS.

Mr Tromans added: "The aerial photograph makes the first day special and memorable for pupils and marks a monumental shift forward for Netherhall School.

"What a great way to start it."

An open evening for year five and six pupils will be held in the school's Ellen Theatre on September 18 at 6pm.