A MEMBER of staff is retiring after 36 years at the same village primary school.

Denise Gauler has worked as a teaching assistant and higher level teaching assistant at Creech St Michael C of E Primary School since 1986.

During her time there, she has supported about 1,000 pupils in the classes she has worked in and many more children across the school.

Key Stage 1 leader Sophie Byrne said Denise has not only helped the youngest children in the school to settle down and improve at their lessons, but has also been supportive of all the adults too.

Mrs Byrne added: "Denise can turn her hand to anything and is always friendly and calm.

"She has worked with a passion for what she does and will be missed a great deal from our staff team.

"We all wish her a fantastic, well-deserved retirement."