AN anniversary book looking at the ups and downs of the history of Windermere School is being launched.

Written by former Lancashire-based journalist Andrew Rosthorn, the 160-page book is packed with first-hand accounts, photographs and anecdotes from the school’s illustrious 150-year history.

“It was a real honour to be tasked with researching and writing about the school,” said Mr Rosthorn.

“For my research I dug into school archives, newspaper cuttings and material on the internet. I discovered lots about the school that may be presented to the public for the first time, including some pretty remarkable history and tales.”

Five years ago former head teacher Michael Jenkins and retired art lecturer Georgina Weddell first touted the idea of a book to tie in with the school’s 150th anniversary. But when Mr Jenkins died in 2011, Mr Rosthorn took over the responsibility and the book was largely written over the next six months.

The Stannite Association committee, which represents former students, also played a part in creating the book.

Former school bursar Paul Flint, who helped to edit it, said: “We look back to when the school was based at St. Anne’s, to the vibrant years under Mr Jenkins in the 70s and 80s and to when it nearly collapsed at the turn of the millennium – then right up to today.

“Andrew Rosthorn has added a good deal of background history about the school’s Lakeland locations at Browhead and Elleray, and personalities linked to those locations, such as Christopher North and William Words-worth.

“I am sure it will bring back lots of memories for lots of people.”

The school almost ceased to exist in June, 1999, when parents, staff and governors faced potentially insurmountable odds of raising £1 million in just 24 hours to keep it from closure.

St Anne’s Independent Girls’ Boarding School – as it was then called – was only saved when a mystery benefactor stumped up £500,000 at the 11th hour to ‘help pull off a Houdini-style escape’.

* Copies of the book can be bought for £25 by contacting Samantha Turner, Stannite Association Secretary, The Old Farmhouse, Harrop Fold, Bolton-by-Bolton, Clitheroe, BB7 4PJ.