AUBREY Powell, designer of iconic album covers and images for legendary bands such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and The Who, returned to King’s Ely this week to talk about his work in the music and film industry.

The former King’s Ely pupil, known locally as Po, said he was “blown away” by the facilities built here since he was at school, particularly the new state-of-the-art music school, drama facilities and art complex.

More than 50 members of the public, including rock fans, parents and the mayor of Ely, joined a theatre of students for the event, helping to raise over £200 for Teenage Cancer Trust and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

After Po’s talk on his career working with many popular rock bands of the 1970s and 80s, he announced the winners of the school’s album cover design competition. Despite intending to pick one overall winner, he was so impressed with students’ work that he decided on three: Jessica Sharp, Molly Edwards and Matt Ley, who all received a signed copy of Aubrey’s book, For the Love of Vinyl.

He said: “I was truly impressed with the display of the creative drive that these children possess, and all who took part deserve a commendation for their skills.

“The reservoir of talent – especially from pupils such as Matt Ley – both visually and musically – was outstanding, and art director Alison Rhodes was a refreshing spirit in the job of mentoring the talented children.”