STAFF and students at The Burgate School said goodbye to a much loved member of staff on the last day of term.

Lesley Cooper, 66, had worked at the school for 35 years and retired as a site manager.

Mrs Cooper, who lives in Fordingbridge, has three children who all attended the school.

Headteacher Celia Nicholls said: "Mrs Cooper has given 35 years of excellent service and dedication to her duty.

“She always put herself out for everyone of all ages and did all she could to help. She is a truly lovely person.”

Mrs Cooper was presented with a cheque and a newly framed painting, called "The Pastry Eaters" by Bartolomé Murillo, which was originally donated to this school in 1960.