After more than a quarter of a century looking after the welfare and pastoral care of children at Field Junior School in Watford, Mrs Marit Beswick has decided to call it a day.

Mrs Beswick joined the school in Watford Field Road in 1987 as a support worker for minority ethnic children, expecting to stay in the post for just two years.

Since then her role evolved to encompass a wealth of pastoral care and welfare activities which has given valuable support to many children and their families.

Marit is also a keen craftswoman with particular skills in knitting and weaving - skills that have been passed on to many Field pupils over the years.

Headteacher Mrs Julie Henley said the school will be losing a very special person.

She said: "Marit has been the listening ear, the shoulder to cry on and the voice of wisdom at Field for as long as I can remember.

"Past parents and pupils who visit the school will always make a bee line for Mrs Beswick. I know she will not lose her contact with the school but we will certainly notice her absence in the coming months."

Marit is a keen traveller and she will now be able to devote more time to travel and build on the work she has established with orphanages in Kerala, India.

She will also be able to devote more time to her young granddaughter.

Mrs Henley added: "The Governors of Field Junior would like to thank Mrs Beswick for her invaluable work over the past 26 years and wish her an enjoyable retirement."

The school is organising a reception to be held on Friday, September 20 in the school. Any past pupils, parents and friends who would like to attend should contact the school office.