THE IRA attack on Deal 12 years ago was committed by the same "evil, nasty" terrorism responsible for the American atrocities. That was the message delivered by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey, during his visit to the new Deal Parochial School.

Dr Carey told parents, guests and pupils that every September 22 the town was reminded of the anniversary of the explosion that killed 11 Royal Marine musicians in 1989.

"Terrorism, whenever it happens and whoever causes it, is the same," said the Archbishop. The free world must fight against it." He stressed the importance of remembering the Royal Marines killed in Deal and told the children their school was a wonderful tribute to those who lost their lives.

Before he blessed the new school, built on part of the former Royal Marines barracks site, he looked back at the first opening ceremony for the London Road school in 1853. He said: "Children then couldn't play computer games and it was before the time of planes, cars and all the things we take for granted.

"Life was very hard and primitive, with some children working when they were 11. Life expectancy was very short."

He told the pupils they were fortunate to have such a wonderful new school, loving parents and to know the future was very rosy for most people.

"Recent events in America show we are not necessarily living in better times, but I am sure the Royal Marines will be delighted a church school is now on their site."

Apart from pulling the curtain cord to reveal a plaque to mark the opening, the Archbishop also unveilled a stone Royal Marine crest at the school gate in Gladstone Road.

The Royal Marines School of Music in Deal closed in 1996, a casualty of Government defence cuts.