Coniston's John Ruskin School became the talk of the newspapers in 1980 and 90

The pupils, aged 12 and 13, entered the Project Respond competition, designed to encourage schools to develop an interest in the local community.

Their contribution was to produce Linkline, which contained news, current affairs and musical items.

The pupils received a certificate and £50 cheque from Tony Johnstone, Nat West manager in Ambleside, to buy 30 more tapes.

There was something for everyone at the John Ruskin School gala and craft fair in Coniston in July 1990.

The Mail reported that, following the opening by BBC Radio Merseyside personality Norman Thomas, balloon-selling clowns encouraged the visitors to have their faces painted,

In spite of showers, the visitors were able to enjoy many varied attractions.

The school hall was filled with music alternating between the school band and the local folk group Stanza.

The Coniston junior school marchers gave an expert display to enthusiastic onlookers.

The craft marquee proved popular with the opportunity to watch a local basket swiller at work and local artist Christine Isherwood produced her delicate flower paintings.

The fire brigade with their engine was open for inspection and children enjoyed the company of the brigade's mascot Welephant.

For those with strong nerves, a mountain rescue pinnacle had been erected. If offered people a chance to scale the heights.

For those less able, the mountain rescue team took volunteers up by stretcher.

The pet show was a success with a large white rabbit named Bramble taking first place and an appealing young Labrador taking second place.

There was further tradition in the gurning competition, which was ably won by Robert Ellis, of Lowick, to a tremendous round of applause.

The grand finale of the day was the draw with one lucky winner going home with a new CD player.

The efforts of the PTA and the school were rewarded with more than £1,500.