POPULAR teacher Peter Webber was saying a find farewell in 1998 after 28 years.

Mr Webber, 61, was retiring from his role at St Mary's Primary School at the end of the summer term.

Staff, children, parents, governors and friends all contributed to give him a send off present to remember - a large television set to enable Mr Webber to enjoy watching sport.

The teacher came from Torrington in North Devon and began his teaching career in Ilfracombe before moving north to a village school near Torrington.

He told the Mercury he had been teaching for a total of 38 years and 100 days when he retired, a decision he reached after his great grandson, Joshua, started at school.

And he said he was set to use his newly-acquired free time to increase hours in the garden and enjoy more relaxation time at a chalet he and wife Gwen owned at Westwood Ho!.

The couple had two daughters, Denise and Jayne, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Gwen also ran a Tuesday Club for disabled people, which Mr Webber said he was also keen to spend more time helping out at.

Pictured above is Mr Webber with Year 3 pupils and deputy headteacher, Helen Whalley.