Over the next few days, the morning and afternoon traffic will be busier, social media will be full of kids wearing smart new outfits and shop shelves will be cleared of stationery.

It can all only mean one thing - the start of a new school year.

Despite the six-week break, the end of the school summer holiday always seems to catch many by surprise and there follows a mad rush to get ready for the new term.

Our shopping centres and supermarkets have been noticeably busier over the past few days as parents prepare, with youngsters in tow.

But it’s a new start for everyone, teachers, pupils and parents alike, and is a time filled with plenty of hope and expectation for the year ahead.

Some will be going on the school run for the first time, their ‘babies’ starting reception class.

Others will be making the step up from primary to secondary, with friends and directions to classes still to be found, while teenagers will be embarking on GCSE and A-Level courses.

Whatever the case, there is some truly outstanding work going on behind the doors of our schools right across East Lancashire.

We look forward to hearing and writing about all of the successes.