PUPILS and staff at Westbrook Old Hall Primary said goodbye to a much-loved staff member this week who retired after 37 years’ service.

Anne Carr started working at the school in 1982, the year that it first opened, and has never had any thoughts about leaving or trying somewhere new.

And after a special celebration assembly attended by her family, the business and premises manager said that while sad, she is looking forward to retirement.

“I do have mixed feelings about leaving and it was always going to be a sad day, but I think I’ve made the right decision,” Anne said.

“If somebody would had told me I'd still be at the school 37 years later, I don’t think I’d have believed them.

“I’ve loved working here and I will definitely miss all the children and staff the most.

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“It's great to see how pupils develop during their time with us and how much they grow up when they leave for high school.”

Anne said that a lot has changed since she started at the school, when it had only 40 pupils, and will still be visiting in her role as a governor.

“The school is definitely different compared to when I started here in terms of having four extra classrooms and 10 times as many children,” she continued.

“I’ve never thought about leaving before now as I’ve been so happy here, but hopefully I can now spend more time with the grandchildren and go on more day trips.

“I’ll still continue as a school governor and I'm looking forward to popping in every now and then to catch up with old friends."

Stewart Quinn, head teacher at Westbrook Old Hall Primary, added: "Anne has been the heart and the soul of the school and made it the family it is today.

"She has had had an incredible impact upon the lives of both children and staff and will be missed by all.

"We cannot thank her enough for everything she has done and wish her all the happiness in the world for her forthcoming retirement."