MORE than 150 people gathered at a Newport high school to celebrate its involvement in the community.

St Julian's School hosted the inaugural community dinner as a way of saying "thank you" to parents, residents and business owners for the part they play to help the school.

Representatives from Sainsbury's attended the dinner after the store donated a £5,000 share of its plastic carrier bag charge to the learning development unit last year.

The event also served as a farewell to outgoing head teacher Denise Richards, and incoming acting head teacher for next year, Rhys Evans.

Mr Evans said it was "fantastic" that the 1,600-pupil school was able to host the event, paid for by a fund designed to help the school engage with parents.

The school building has been part for the St Julian's community for 75 years, he said.

Those gathered watched a film of "a day in the life" at St Julian's School and pupil Jordan Parton performed magic tricks and illusions while pupils and staff served hot food catered by Polly's Buffet from Cwmbran.

Those involved in organising the event included assistant to the head teacher Ryan Owen, Louise Paske from the behavioural support team, Cath Cox from learning support and Andy Milman, site manager.