TRIBUTES were paid to long serving staff member Tricia Venton BEM by Camelsdale Primary School at the end of term, which concluded with its traditional Easter egg hunt and a colourful Easter bonnets parade to services at St Paul’s Church.

In addition to Mrs Venton retiring after 34 years as business manager, school secretary Jemma Trickett is leaving to relocate to Dorset to be nearer her family.

Headteacher Sarah Palmer said: “We shall certainly miss both key members of staff. Mrs Venton has dedicated her life to our school and has had a real impact in helping the school to manage its budget as well as being a member of the leadership team in developing the school’s premises. Mrs Venton has also been instrumental in leading the school’s swimming programme and in 34 years has helped to ensure over 1,000 children have learnt to swim.”

Mrs Venton was presented with a personalised wheelbarrow filled with gifts and enjoyed a whole school tea party.