Mrs B bids a fond farewell to school

A midday supervisor who is leaving her school after 34 years was surprised with gifts, flowers and handmade cards at an assembly held in her honour.

Mrs Gill Burgan, known to generations of children as Mrs B, left Norwell primary for the final time on Friday.

Youngsters presented her with oversized cards, flowers, a DVD of the sitcom Dinnerladies, and a voucher for tea for two at Doddington Hall.

Mrs Burgan also had her first opportunity in all her time at Norwell to ring the school bell, which was used at the school’s former premises to mark the beginning of each school day.

It is a school tradition that children or staff who are leaving ring the bell.

Children sang the hymn One More Step Along The World I Go — another leaving tradition.

Mrs Burgan, 72, of North Muskham, said she would miss the children, staff and friendships she had made over the years.

She first worked at the school more than 40 years ago when she covered a staff absence.

“Then, when this post came up, I applied and got it,” she said.

“I know most of the families here. It is a lovely village and I have always been made to feel welcome.”

Mrs Burgan said she was grateful for the gifts and cards.

She said she was looking forward to spending time at home with her husband during her retirement.