A VILLAGE school said goodbye to its long-serving secretary at the end of term. Karen Newham retired at the end of term after 27 years service at Barley School, and received a surprise celebration in her honour. Sue Jagelman, governor at Barley School, sa

A VILLAGE school said goodbye to its long-serving secretary at the end of term.

Karen Newham retired at the end of term after 27 years service at Barley School, and received a surprise celebration in her honour.

Sue Jagelman, governor at Barley School, said: "The school had arranged a surprise celebration tea party that even the youngest children had managed to keep a secret. "The afternoon of celebration was attended by staff, pupils and parents, governors and members of Mrs Newham's family including her children, former pupils of the school, and her husband and grandchildren."

Mrs Newham was presented with special cards, flowers, an album of pictures of her life at school, and a camera.

Two cakes, including one in the shape of the secretary's desk complete with computer, telephone and overflowing in-tray, were provided by the school's kitchen.

Head teacher Julie Price paid tribute Mrs Newham's "outstanding contribution" to the life of the school over so many years, working alongside several different heads.