THREE school staff who served 40 years in education between them have retired from a Workington school.

Kath Lomas, of Maryport, along with Kathleen McNichol and Pat Spencer, both of Cockermouth, have retired together from their positions as science technicians at St Joseph’s Catholic High School on the last day of school before the Christmas holidays.

They were all praised by colleagues for their vital work.

Rebecca Moody, who teaches biology and physics, in the science department at St Joseph’s Catholic High School, said: “They have given so much, they have given a lot of time.”

Miss Moody said: “Kathleen has worked five years here but she worked for about 20 years at Cockermouth. Kath has worked 20 years here and she worked a few years previously to that, also at Cockermouth.”

Pat worked for 15 years at St Joseph’s Catholic High School and also spent time working at Ehenside.

Staff of the science department at the school held a celebration for them on their last day giving presents.

She said: “They are into walking so they plan to meet up in their time off.”

Emotions were high on the last day of term for Miss Moody, who has worked alongside the technicians at the Workington school.

In a post to their Facebook page, St Joseph’s Catholic High School said: “Wishing our three wonderful science technicians a very happy retirement.

“They have given the school over 40 years of support and we wish them every happiness in their retirement.”