Staff and pupils at a Colchester school are getting ready to bid a fond farewell to a woman who has helped keep it spick and span for nearly three decades.

Hilda Hinson, of Queen Elizabeth Way, went to work as a cleaner at Monkwick Infants School for six weeks in 1974 - but never left.

Now, 27 years later, she has decided to hang up her mop and duster to have a well-earned rest with husband Ken, a milkman for 33 years, who is also retiring within the next few weeks.

The whole school will gather together for a special party next week when they break up for the summer holidays, with all of Mrs Hinson's family being invited along.

Mrs Hinson, 62, who has nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, said she will be sad to go after 27 years but has decided it is time to have a bit of a rest.

"I enjoy seeing the children and have always gone to their plays and events which I hope to continue doing, but I am getting a bit tired now and I think it is time to go.

"It has been a really good little job for me because it is just near my home and even my grandchildren are pupils so I get to see them," she added.

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