POPULAR teacher Anne Newton, who has taught more than 500 children to read and write, has retired from Kemble Primary School after 30 years in teaching.

Mrs Newton started her career at Powell's School in Cirencester, and joined Kemble Primary School 28 years ago.

Retiring at the end of the end of the summer term, staff current and past, pupils and parents came together for one last leaving assembly to wish her a happy retirement.

One of her passions has been school assemblies and she led Collective worship and Religious Education for many years at the school.

She was also responsible for Special Educational Needs at Kemble, as well as vulnerable pupils. Families she has helped throughout the years praised her caring and supportive manner.

Carol Dougill, executive headteacher at Kemble Primary and Siddington CE Primary Schools said: "Anne has been one of those treasured members of staff that all schools should have – compassionate, caring and always putting the children and staff at the heart of everything she does.

"After such a long time at our school, Anne will be missed so very much, but we wish her a fabulous, restful retirement’.

Anne was presented with a story book of her time at Kemble, an i-pad and jewellery.

Her teaching partner, Mrs Sam Savage made a special cake, parents provided an afternoon tea and children put on a show.