WEYDON School said farewell to its longest serving dinner lady, Pat Probert, after 37 years working at the school.

Pat has been a dedicated and loyal member of staff helping in the school’s restaurant as well as occasionally assisting the Design and Technology Curriculum Area. Pat was invited along with her husband to join staff members for lunch and was surprised with gifts and a memorable card signed by those who knew her.

She later unveiled a plaque in honour of her lengthy service and to signal the official opening of the school’s newly extended restaurant, the Breakpoint Cafe.

Pat was delighted and overwhelmed with the event and surprised that she was asked to unveil the plaque. To the delight of the staff, she thanked everyone and commented on the fact that she has seen, in some cases, three generations of students walk past her at lunchtime.

Deputy head Neil Butcher said: “We have been honoured to have Pat with us for such a long period of time. She has been a delight to see each day and we will all miss her smiling face and cheerful greeting”.

It was a fitting and memorable send off for Pat who spent the lunchtime chatting with members of staff and saying her goodbyes.