A teaching assistant who has given 44 years of service to a school in St Ann's has bid farewell to staff and pupils on her last day.
Angela Roe, 62, of Carlton joined the Huntingdon Academy in St Ann's during her training at the very start of her career in 1975.
She became a qualified teaching assistant in 1976 and has been at the school ever since.
The grandmother spent her last day meeting with past colleagues and was given a 'this is your life'-style assembly on Friday, February 14.
She said: "It's been a long journey and there has been a lot of turnover here. New head teachers, so many children.
"When I look back, the time has just flown by. My daughter was at nursery here and then my eldest grandson.
"My last day, I've just been floating, it doesn't seem real."
When asked about what attracted her to the role, she said: "I had such a good time at school it was just the way to go.
"I had the option of going on to teacher training but I decided to stay with what I was doing.
"I stayed here just because of everything, really especially the community around the school.
"I can't walk through the city centre now without someone saying 'hello miss'.
"It's a unique school and we're one big, happy team."
Over the past four decades, Mrs Roe has seen the school develop and expand to become what it is now.
She praised the outstanding school adding: "It started as a small family school and even though it's grown it has kept that bond.
"We include the parents in everything and the school is the hub of the area and we strive hard for the children in the community."
Speaking about her plans for retirement, Mrs Roe said: "I have some personal things planned with my husband, some nice holidays.
"But I shall still pop in. Sadly, it's time for a change but you have got to embrace the new.
"It's been a lovely last day, all the children have been planning things for me. I've been kept out of classrooms for them to surprise me.
"There's been a few tears, on my part too.
"But I'm looking forward to more time with family and catching up with old friends."
Head teacher Ross Middleton, said: "For Angela to dedicate her whole working life to Huntingdon Academy is truly exceptional.
"She has always been a valued and hard-working member of the staff team and we are delighted that she wishes to continue her involvement with the school by carrying on as an effective member of the governing body."
CEO for L.E.A.D Academy Trust Diana Owen CBE, said: "44 years of service is a fantastic achievement and I know that during this time Angela's dedication to Huntingdon and commitment to helping improve the education of its pupils has never wavered.
"She has been an invaluable member of staff and on behalf of the L.E.A.D. Academy Trust I would like to thank her for all her hard work and the loyalty that she has shown over the years. I wish her all the very best in your retirement."
