We're trying to carry on normally says Soham head

The head of the primary school where Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman were pupils has spoken of his attempts to maintain normality in the year following their deaths.

Speaking a year after the girls' disappearance, Geoff Fisher, head of St Andrew's Primary, Soham, said staff had tried to do "all the things we would normally do".

"Throughout the year we've tried to maintain all the normal events we carry on doing," he said.

"I think among the adults the feeling is one of relief that the school year is coming to an end."

He added: "If you came into our school as an outsider you would say there would be no difference. All through the year we have tried to make it as normal as possible. But certainly beneath the surface obviously there is that difference amongst all the people. It's brought people very close together.

"I think the support people give each other has been noticeable. We have always been a supportive staff but this year it's been more so. We went out for a staff meal near the end of term and every member of staff, every member of the teaching staff and support staff went. I think that sums up the support. The way everyone wants to pull together.

"People have been prepared to talk about their own feelings, which is what we have tried to encourage. To talk about it to colleagues when you found it necessary. But it's never been a case of you talk about it for the sake of it."

He added: "There will be times when certain things might be said, certain things might be mentioned, certain things might happen and the reaction you get will be different now. More sensitive in that sense. It's business as usual but beneath the surface there is a sensitivity that can be brought to the surface very quickly."

"The postbag up to the first half-term after September was incredible - predominantly from head teachers and teachers all over the country. All sorts of gifts and donations. People just wanted to make a gesture. Absolutely incredible."

"The way that Holly and Jessica's families have coped has been a strength to everyone. I think I have been surprised and impressed by the way the whole community has coped. Last September we didn't quite know what was coming in the hear ahead. The amazing thing is we are here now talking to you. I think the resilience of people has been quite remarkable," he said.