WIVELISCOMBE Primary School bid a fond farewell to a long-standing member of staff at the end of the spring term.

Fran Carter left after nearly 30 years as a teacher and her departure was marked first by a special whole-school assembly - the first in over a year - where she exchanged presents with head teacher Tony Halstead.

Thanks to a collection from teachers, pupils and parents, Mrs Carter was presented with a ring as well as a book of thanks signed by all the pupils. In return, Mrs Carter presented the school with a colourful painting which will welcome visitors to the new hall.

At the end of the day, the tearful teacher was applauded and cheered by over 250 children who formed a long line from her mobile classroom to a waiting vintage car.