A school community has come together to show its love and affection and say thank you for the “priceless” contribution made by a dinner lady during the past 50 years.

Gladys Coldman started work at Kingsway Infant School on September 3, 1974 - and has been there ever since.

Although she is now 80, Gladys has no plans to stop serving meals and helping the children during their lunch breaks anytime soon and wants to remain in the role as long as she is able.

“I love it,” she said. “I love the children, that’s the main thing. I love the job, but I love the children.

“I can’t imagine not being here…but it will come, won’t it.”

Gladys Coldman started work at Kingsway Infant School on September 3, 1974Gladys Coldman started work at Kingsway Infant School on September 3, 1974 (Image: Newsquest)

Gladys has seen two generations of her own family pass through the North Approach school and the love and affection in which she is held by colleagues and pupils, past and present, was evident during a special assembly held in her honour this afternoon during which a congratulatory video message from Watford mayor Peter Taylor was played.

“Our gratitude for Gladys is just for the kindness she shows to every pupil,” said headteacher Debbie Knights. “They look out for her because she is so kind and she will always speak to a child, always look after them and will always show that she cares and that’s priceless.

“It’s so lovely when parents come back and they recognise her and say ‘oh, she was here when I was here’.”

Gladys with headteacher Debbie Kinghts, third left, and colleaguesGladys with headteacher Debbie Kinghts, third left, and colleagues (Image: Newsquest)

As well as working at the school, Gladys volunteers at the Lighthouse Café at Leavesden Green Community Hub. This offers free refreshments and entertainment on Mondays, from 10am to noon, during term time and operates in partnership between All Saints Leavesden and Watford Community Housing Trust.

All Saints vicar Rev Eddie Green said: “She’s a grafter and has been all her life, generally for the benefit of other people rather than just for herself. She’s a definite giver and all the best of Watford.

“Having been in Watford for ten years she represents what’s the best of Watford - commitment to community and love for the town and the area where she grew up and where she lives.”