A well-respected member of the Writhlington community has retired from her caretaking job after two decades.

Kay Hamlen left St Mary's Primary School in Writhlington after 20 years of service as cleaner and caretaker.

Mrs Hamlen has come full circle at the school having started her education there aged five.

Her two daughters, Penny and Tanya, also went to St Mary's.

The children marked Mrs Hamlen's retirement with a party. They made her a huge cake and presented her with gardening vouchers. The governors at the school showed their appreciation by presenting her with a wooden trough filled with flowers and a garden statue.

School governor Dawn Robinson said: "Mrs Hamlen possessed an enduring love and affection for the children and they had a good rapport with her.

"It also goes to show Mrs Hamlen's kindness in that she always put fresh flowers, often from her own garden, in the entrance to the school every week of the year."

When asked how she would spend her retirement she said: "I am looking forward to spending a bit more time with my husband and family, and also not having to watch the clock and generally having more leisure time.

"I also love my garden and am looking forward to spending my vouchers."