STAFF and pupils from a Warrington high school are overwhelmed by the community support shown and feel ‘privileged’ to be part of the town following a sudden prom cancellation.

Cardinal Newman Catholic High School’s year 11 prom was due to be held at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on June 29.

But on Monday, which also happened to be the first day of the pupils' GCSEs, 165 ‘devastated’ teenagers were told the news that due to Sky Sports changing the rugby league fixtures, their prom – an end-of-year celebration - could no longer take place.

This was the second time the year group had lost their prom venue due to a previous double booking. And due to students booking appointments in advance, a change of prom date was out of the question.

Staff issued a plea for help in finding a venue on social media and were ‘inundated’ with suggestions and offers from members of the community, parents, and local businesses.

As a result, a new venue has been found and year 11s at Cardinal Newman can now enjoy their end-of-year celebrations and prom at Spirit Restaurant and Lounge at Victoria Park.

Warrington Borough Council has also agreed to sponsor the prom to ensure it can still go ahead for pupils despite new extra costs.

Talking to the Warrington Guardian, head teacher Jo Langstaff said: “We completely understand that the change of fixture date was out of the hands of Warrington Wolves, but as we had already lost our first venue due to a double booking it was not the news our year 11 needed on the very first day of their GCSE exams. 

“Thankfully the experience has proved, yet again, what a wonderful town we are privileged to be part of. 

“We were inundated with suggestions and offers from parents, venues, and local businesses, but in particular from Steven Broomhead and Warrington Borough Council. 

“We have now been able to secure Spirit as our new, impressive venue, maintaining the date and, with sponsorship from Warrington Borough Council, giving our fantastic year 11 the wonderful prom they deserve.”

Warrington Wolves have also given the year 11s free tickets to a forthcoming Super League fixture.