ONE of Huddersfield's favourite teachers is waving goodbye to her pupils.

Pat Bell, who began teaching youngsters in 1968, is retiring as assistant headteacher of Rowley Lane School, in Lepton.

Pat, who lives in Fixby, is now looking forward to spending more time with her husband Steve, daughters Becca and Nicole and her grandson, 2-year-old Jacob.

She said: "I have so many mixed emotions about leaving teaching and especially leaving Rowley Lane, because there is such a good team here.

"I will miss the children but I won't miss having to get up at 6.30am every morning - I am looking forward to a lie in."

Headteacher and friend Carol Martin said Pat was one of the finest teachers she had ever worked with.

She said: "Because of work Pat did regarding the care and guidance given to pupils we were highly commended in our Ofsted report and even used as an example to other schools across the country.

"But she is not just great at her job, she is a great friend and really good fun. She will be missed."