FORMER staff members returned to Malmesbury School last month to wish PE and humanities teacher Mike Neal good luck as he retired after 41 years.

Mike, a former head-boy at the secondary school, returned in 1974 to take up a teaching post after completing a degree in education at Exeter University, having been inspired by his PE teacher.

“Education is all about recognising talent and receiving inspiration”, said Mike. “No matter what you are teaching, having inspired students, it is all about identifying and supporting students.

“Malmesbury is a wonderful school to work in, I feel like I have been blessed as it is such a successful school and that is only achieved through hard work and dedication.

“I feel honoured that I’ve spent time here on both sides of the fence.”

Being a Malmesbury local, Mike found himself teaching his own brother during his time at the school, also playing with former students in his role as captain at Minety Rugby Club. 

Among those attending the party was former headteacher Mr Darcy, who joined the school at the same time as Mike, who said:  “Mike did as much out of the school as he did in it.

"My son went on a ski trip organised by Mike when he was a student here and is still skiing today. 

“Mike got people interested in things and they kept going with it later.”

“It’s a remarkable service,” said current head Tim Gilson. “Mike cares so deeply about Malmesbury and the young people of the town.

“A lot of former staff have come back to wish him well and it’s was important to honour his service to the school and the community.”