A COOK who has dedicated 23 years to a Buntingford school is leaving to take early retirement tomorrow (Friday). Colleen Huggett, 56, of Monks Walk, joined Millfield School as a general assistant before becoming the cook 11 years ago. But she will be leav

A COOK who has dedicated 23 years to a Buntingford school is leaving to take early retirement tomorrow (Friday).

Colleen Huggett, 56, of Monks Walk, joined Millfield School as a general assistant before becoming the cook 11 years ago.

But she will be leaving to spend more time with her husband.

She said: "I'm looking forward to going away in our caravan as well as enjoying the summer months because I'm usually stuck in a hot kitchen. But I will miss the staff and the children and their stories. Millfield is such a friendly place to work at."

Mrs Huggett whose two grown-up daughters went to Millfield said she has enjoyed watching the children grow up over the years.

"In the past I have served children and then they grow up and I serve their children," she said."

Debra Blizzard, headteacher said: "She is one of the main cogs in our school. She serves every child and knows all their names. I have never known her to have time off, her kitchen is exemplary.

"The young staff were devastated to hear she was leaving because she is like their mum and the older staff will miss her as much because she is like part of the furniture.

"She is professional in everything she does and she is part of who we are and where we are today."

Staff, pupils and parents will be taking part in a celebration assembly to say goodbye.