Staff and pupils at a Thornaby primary school said “farewell” to one of its longest serving members.
After 32 years - equalling 6080 shifts - midday supervisor, Pat Butler, parted company with her colleagues - some who she once looked after as children themselves.
The 66-year-old was rewarded for her service to Mandale Mill School with a surprise tea party thrown in her honour.
Speaking on the emotional day, Mammy - as she is known at the school - said: “It’s been a very nice last day but I can’t believe where the time has gone.
“I came to the school to cover someone who was ill and 32 years later I am still here.
“A lot of the children have been coming up to me today, asking why I am leaving and I have had plenty of hugs from them.
“I knew something was going on as I have heard whispers during the week but I did not expect this, it’s marvellous.”
Pat - who has always worked in the infant yard - has looked after generations of families and even supervised some of the people she calls her colleagues.
As she opened goodbye cards and presents, staff were quick to praise her.
Colleague Maureen Cossins said: “I have worked with Pat for 26 years.
“She is just great to work with and will be a big miss in the yard.”
Headteacher, Leanne Moore, said: “You can tell that Pat really enjoys the job and I think this is why she has stayed so long.
“Rain, hail or shine she has been here and will be a big miss.
“She will have seen hundreds of children through the school so to say thank you, the children presented her with a bouquet of flowers in assembly.”
The grandmother says she will miss the children and staff but is now looking forward to having some time to herself.
“I love gardening and reading so I can’t wait to be able to do things like that,” said Pat.
“I decided in February that I was ready to retire, I have loved working here and will miss everyone at the school but it was time to call it a day.”
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