THE charity which runs Accrington Academy celebrated its 125th anniversary.

The United Church Schools Trust, or UCST, is a Christian charity established in 1883, which has become a major provider of independent schools, and through its subsidiary, United Learning Trust, is the largest single sponsor of academies.

Representatives from Accrington Academy joined those from UCST’s other schools and academies in the North of England in a service of Thanksgiving, Rededication and Celebration at Lincoln Cathedral.

Chief executive Sir Ewan Harper said: “It was wonderful to see so many students from across our schools and academies joining together.”