A school dinner lady has retired after 28 years service and producing a staggering 800,000 meals.

Gillian Hinde has worked in the kitchen at St Bridget’s Catholic Primary School for over a quarter of a decade and has now taken the decision to retire and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Headteacher Suzanne Smith said: "All staff and governors at St Bridget’s wish Gillian a very happy and healthy retirement and we would like to express our gratitude to her for her many years of service and hard work. She has always been happy and friendly with the children and will be a huge miss in our school."

Suzanne said Gillian has seen many children come and go and some of them now even have their own families.

She said she has been an integral part of the school and has contributed to many events throughout the years and is well loved by all of the children.

Memories of her time include when she put salt on the chocolate crunch instead of sugar and made semolina without adding water.

The school held a special assembly for Gillian to say thank you for her commitment and the children gave her flowers, cards and gifts for her to take away.

"She will be missed but we wish her all the best with her retirement where Gillian hopes to do some voluntary work and look after and help her Mum on the family farm," Suzanne added.