Mum Charlotte Smith was determined her son and his mates would get the send-off they deserved after leaving to go up to secondary school next term.

With lockdown restrictions in place, traditional parties and fun activities were cancelled for Year 6 pupils at St Margaret's Junior School, Rainham.

But Charlotte had other ideas – she hired a DJ and bought 100 balloons so a street party could be held outside the school gates as children walked out for the last time on Thursday.

Parents and classmates boogied in a road outside the Orchard Street school to the sounds of DJ Blitz who travelled from Essex to host the celebrations.

Children, including Charlotte's son Odin, 11, had their pictures taken under an arch of balloons in the school colours of blue and white and autographs were signed in books given out by the school.

Therapist Charlotte, who lives in Oastview, Rainham, also handed out medals emblazoned with the word "winner" to youngsters.

The 34-year-old said: "When I heard the school was not going to do anything, I thought 'I just can't let this go'.

"Odin has been at St Margaret's since infants, about eight years. It's an end of an era for them. I couldn't let them just walk out and that's it.

"To see the kids jumping for joy was just amazing. It's the happiest I have seen Odin in months.

"It was great to see kids just being kids. After all this, some will come out with mental health issues. We need to do more things like this."

Charlotte added: "I didn't know how it would go down so I put out a poll on social media.

"The feedback I have had since from parents and the kids has been amazing.

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"It took me just a few days to organise, taking into account social distancing and health and safety.

"It cost me about £150 with balloons, the DJ and doughnuts and Odin gave all the girls a yellow rose each.

"It was worth every penny just to see so many happy faces and I'm sure it will be something for everyone to remember."

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