AFTER nearly 30 years as Egloskerry Primary School’s cleaner, Pat Alford has said goodbye.

Starting in April 1988, Pat worked before and after school, making the classrooms and rooms spick-and-span for the children to learn in.

However after countless hours, she decided to hand over the reins on the last day of the Easter term, Thursday, March 29.

Pat said: “I thoroughly enjoyed it and interacting with all the staff but the time felt right. I’ll be 70 next month and although I’m still fit and able, it’s long enough.”

Pat, who also lives in the village, worked 20 hours a week from Monday to Friday, coming in from 6.45am to 7.45am and then after school until nearly 6pm.

However Pat was left shocked when she turned up to school for her last day to see plenty of surprises in store for her.

She said: “I had a really nice send-off last Thursday. There was a picnic lunch in the hall and I didn’t know anything about it.

“All of the children sang to me which was something they had made up, while there were teachers, parents and even ex members of staff there, which made it really special.

“I was also given some lovely cards and poems and comments so it was a really good day.

“On the day I actually felt alright but I probably won’t feel the difference until the children go back to school and I don’t have to.

“But I’ll still be up there going to certain events and the Christmas plays, so I’ll still be involved.”

Looking ahead, Pat has plenty of hobbies to keep her interested and thanked everyone for their efforts.

She said: “I’m really into my gardening, line dancing and bell ringing so I’ve got lots to keep me occupied and I’m sure I’ll be spending even more time in the garden.

“But I’d like thank everyone for their support over the years, the lovely cards and gifts I received at the send-off. It was a great way to end and I look forward to seeing you all soon.”