CHILDREN said farewell to two long-serving staff at Nields Junior, Infant and Nursery School, Slaithwaite.

Early years teacher Julie Scholefield and classroom support assistant June Wilkinson retired yesterday.

Mrs Wilkinson, 60, who lives in the village, spent 24 years working at the school.

The mother-of-two and grandmother-of-three said: “I’m looking forward to spending more time with my grandchildren and my husband David.”

Mrs Wilkinson, who also worked as an admin officer in the school, had previously spent eight years at Slaithwaite Playgroup.

Mrs Scholefield, 59, also retired yesterday.

The Linthwaite woman worked at the school from 1974, with an eight-year break while she raised her sons Colin and David.

“I felt so sad to say goodbye but also happy that I enjoyed my job as much at the end as I did on my first day,” she said.

“I love children and they bring something new every day.

She is looking forward to spending more time with her husband Terry and their three grandchildren.