A SCHOOL is bidding farewell to a "legendary" learning support assistant.

Monica Graves is retiring from Harwich Community Primary School and Nursery, in Barrack Lane, after 30 years.

Mrs Graves - known better as Monny by staff - has dedicated decades to helping students learn and assisting staff with school fetes.

A spokesman from the school said: "You have reached a milestone with finishing your 30 years with us.

"Monny, you have touched the hearts of many children and families in Harwich with your kind-hearted, caring way.

"We know that there will be many people big and small, young and old whose lives you will have touched and left a happy, long lasting memory."

Mrs Graves was renowned for her brilliant baking skills as well as creating mini games at Christmas and summer fetes.

She added: "School life will not be the same as we know it without you greeting us every day.

"She is also the perfect bingo caller and is in her element at these competitive events, both in and out of school.

"She has started many a charity collection, benefitting so many worthy causes."

Mrs Graves, from Harwich, even won a Pride of Tendring award for her contribution to local charities in 2018.

The awards recognise community heroes from across the district, and Mrs Graves collected her award at a glittering ceremony in front of 200 people.

She used to help run the Harwich Post Office with her family and for many years was a volunteer at the Hub Youth Club at the Mayflower School on many Friday nights in the past.

She is now a big fundraiser for organisations such as the local hospital and RNLI.

Mr Graves has also supported most of the local schools in the town and has raised a considerable amount for individual causes.

She added: "At any social event, she is one of the first to take to the dancefloor; she'd the life and soul of the party.

"Monny and her generosity will be missed throughout our school community.

"Happy retirement lovely lady."