A Bucks school has announced the closure of a club that it has been running for 54 years.

Chesham Grammar School has announced that its Equestrian Club will close at the end of the current school year.

The club, which was founded in 1972, has been a part of school life for 54 years and has provided generations of students with opportunities to develop riding skills, care for ponies and take part in equestrian experiences both in the UK and abroad.

In announcing the closure, the club said it would be unable to continue beyond this academic year for “a variety of reasons”.

Over the years, members have enjoyed riding holidays, visits to international competitions and regular opportunities to learn about horse care and stable management.

The club has also helped forge lasting friendships among students and families.

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Tributes have been paid to the many people who have supported the organisation throughout its history.

The club extended its thanks to three generations of the Mash family for the use of their fields, as well as to parents, former students and volunteers who have contributed to its success over the decades.

Special recognition was given to Antonia Thoday, who has run the club for more than 40 years.

In a statement, the club said Ms Thoday had inspired hundreds of students and fostered a lifelong love of horses among young riders.

The closure marks the end of an era for Chesham Grammar, with many former members expected to remember the club as a cherished part of their school experience.