A Droylsden school paid tribute to their long-serving dinner lady as she retired after three decades in the job.

Pauline Glover first started working at St Mary’s C of E Primary School 30 years ago, but this week hung up her apron for the last time.

Over the years she has helped to feed thousands of Droylsden youngsters and has many happy memories of her years behind the serving hatch.

She told the Tameside Reporter there had been lots of changes to school life over the years.

“When I first started here the school just had a scullery where the food came in, we served it and then did the washing-up.

“Then we got a new kitchen and a new building and it’s been good.

“We’ve had some good times, it can be very hard work but I’ve enjoyed it.”

She reserved special praise for the children of St Mary’s.

“The children are lovely, really nice. I’m surprised at how many of their names I’ve remembered through the years.

“If I had a pound for every child I’ve served dinner to I could have retired years ago!”

She named Christmas dinner  as the best day of the year, albeit only after everyone had finished being served.

To show their thanks, the school family presented Pauline with a bracelet, a hibiscus plant and a bottle of her favourite drink to celebrate her retirement with.

Katherine Hampson, headteacher at St Mary’s, paid tribute to Pauline, saying she brought ‘fun, laughter and cheerfulness’ to the kitchen.

“Pauline is great. She’s flexible, lives locally and always helps out when we’re short-staffed,” she said.

“Anyone that leaves us is missed and we wish her well in her retirement.”

Pauline says that she’s going to enjoy more time with her husband and grandson during retirement, plus spend more time cycling and walking.

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