TOTS and teachers gathered to say a fond farewell to a nursery worker.

Felicity Mercer has worked at Colchester High School’s nursery for the past 21 years, guiding children into the upper levels of the school.

On Friday, her last day before she retired, she was surprised with gifts including flowers, chocolates and vouchers as people gathered to say thank you.

Helen Clarke, marketing manager at the Wellesley Road school, said: “It was an absolutely lovely day and Felicity loved it.

“Felicity has really been the heart of the nursery. There are children now in Year 11 who she looked after when they first arrived in our nursery.

“People were crying and saying goodbye.

“She really will be missed.”

Parents and children held an Easter egg hunt in the morning to hide why they had all gathered together before they surprised Mrs Mercer with a card and her gifts.