School says fond farewell to dinner lady Mrs Newman

Youngsters from each year group at the Hemsworth school presented Janet Newman with cards and collages during a retirement assembly on Friday.

Mrs Newman, 64, said: “It will be hard for me because I’ve been there that long. But eventually, my husband will be retiring next year as well, I will get used to it. I think the time was right.

“I’m just ready to put my feet up for a while and enjoy some good holidays. I’m planning to be travelling to places I haven’t seen and hopefully see more of the world.”

She will soon jet off to Madeira for a two-week trip with her husband Thomas, with whom she celebrated a ruby wedding anniversary last month.

And she hopes to spend more time with her own children Gemma and Richard.

During the assembly on Friday teachers presented Mrs Newman with a rose bush and her dinner lady colleagues surprised her with jewellery and an orchid.

She also received vouchers from staff and kind messages from the pupils.

Mrs Newman said: “We’ve had, I think, five heads while I’ve been there. I’ve seen quite a lot of changes.”

She has attended many school trips as a helper and will continue to do this in retirement.

“We’ve had some lovely outings,” she said.

“It’s a smashing school. I like working with children and I’ve enjoyed all my time there.

“I want to thank everybody for all the lovely things I’ve received.”

Headteacher Sally Henshall said: “We’re quite saddened. She’s been part of the furniture.

“She’s always here, always got a smile on her face and the kids loved her.”