Whitstone Primary School this year said farewell not only to its Year 6 leavers but also to a respected member of staff.

The Year 6 leavers enjoyed a great time at the disco, organised by the school’s PTFA (Parents’ Teachers’ and Friends’ Association) at which they were the guests of honour.

At a subsequent entertaining leavers’ assembly, there were moments of laughter as well as tears. The leavers presented the school with an outdoor clock and outdoor playtime games.

A school spokesman said: “We wish them well as they embark on the next stage of their lives and hope that they have as many fond memories of us as we have of them.”

Also saying goodbye was Mrs Maggie Stanbury, a much-loved member of staff, who decided it was time to retire.

Somehow contriving to keep the arrangements a secret from her, a party was organised for the last day of term, to which her friends and colleagues and former pupils from across the 40 years of her teaching career were invited.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week’s edition of the Post.