CHILDREN and staff at a school in Frome said goodbye to a much-loved teaching assistant this month.

Rona Bowles retired from Hayesdown First School after being part of the team for 21 years.

She worked in all year groups, and even remembers teaching some of the parents of current pupils.

Mrs Battersby, headteacher, said “We all wish Mrs Bowles well in her retirement and would like to thank her for her hard work and dedication over the years.

“Through all the years she has helped so many children and has been a wonderfully supportive, caring and hardworking colleague – she will be greatly missed by everyone.

“We will all miss her and hope that she remains a friend of the school.”

Mrs Bowles is looking forward to having new adventures, including “backing bread, reading and booking a holiday”. She enjoys going on walks and has asked the children to say hello if they see her.

Classes presented a special card to Mrs Bowles on her final day and she received gifts including a Japanese maple tree.