The famous maroon uniform worn by pupils at Lewes Old Grammar for decades will disappear at the end of this academic year.

From September a new grey uniform will replace the deep red sported by students since before the Second World War.

Tim Laker, operations manager at Lewes Old Grammar School, said: “It was time for a smart, contemporary look for our students.”

Former pupil and artist Rupert Denyer has also designed a new school crest incorporating a lion rampant with an eight crosses crosslet, representing Lewes Priory.

It will feature on all uniforms, including the revamped sports kits, for all pupils in the school.

Mr Denyer said: “The crest has to be historically accurate. So there were tight specifications to work with.

“It was wonderful to work on such a prestigious and unusual project, and the fact that it was for my old school was an added bonus.”