Teachers and students have celebrated a cherished supervisor who has been a key part of a school for almost four decades ahead of her retirement.

Mary Horsted is bidding farewell to St Paul's Catholic Primary School, Paulsgrove, after working as a lunchtime supervisor and cleaner for the past 38 years.

The 74-year-old, who is getting ready to retire, first started her role at the school when her children were young and during her time, she has become a beloved member of staff.

Lunchtime supervisor and cleaner at St Paul's Catholic Primary School in Paulsgrove, Mary Horsted (74) is retiring after almost 38 years at the school.

Pictured is: Mary Horsted with students (l-r) Noah Memari (10), Mike Reyes (10), Phoenix Rowsell (11) and Floyd Standen (10).

Picture: Sarah Standing (181225-3802) — Lunchtime supervisor and cleaner at St Paul's Catholic Primary School in Paulsgrove, Mary Horsted (74) is retiring after almost 38 years at the school. Pictured is: Mary Horsted with students (l-r) Noah Memari (10), Mike Reyes (10), Phoenix Rowsell (11) and Floyd Standen (10). Picture: Sarah Standing (181225-3802) | Sarah Standing

placeholder image — Lunchtime supervisor and cleaner at St Paul's Catholic Primary School in Paulsgrove, Mary Horsted (74) is retiring after almost 38 years at the school. Pictured is: Mary Horsted with students (l-r) Noah Memari (10), Mike Reyes (10), Phoenix Rowsell (11) and Floyd Standen (10). Picture: Sarah Standing (181225-3802) | Sarah Standing

Mary said: “I’ve loved every minute of it - when I started here my youngest daughter started as well but they are all grown up now and my grandsons all came here so it’s been really nice.

“I’ve loved it, loved all of the children.

“I’ll probably relax but I’m sure my grandsons will keep me busy and I’ll get to spend more time with my husband.”

To celebrate Mary’s retirement, the school organised a special assembly for her on Thursday, December 18 equipped with poems, a handmade crown and gifts from staff and students.

11-year-old Phoenix Rowsell said: “When I was in key stage 1, she used to serve me dinners at lunch and she was really sweet, and would always give me all of the vegetables she knows I like.”