TEACHERS with more than 100 years service between them have retired from a Melksham school.

During a leaving ceremony at George Ward School last Wednesday, David Bouault, Andy McVernon, Angela Turner, Madge Shaw and Viv Kemp were praised for their hard work and dedication.

Mr Bouault, who was a history teacher for 33 years, said: "I have seen a huge amount of growth at the school and served under quite a few headteachers.

"I enjoyed working in the history department as it got good results.

"I was a head of year for 29 years and very much enjoyed getting to know the pupils and their parents.

"I helped organise a reunion for our 50th anniversary it was like a leaving present because I met former members of staff and pupils I had not seen for years."

Although he has left, Mr Bouault will carry on marking exams, but hopes he can fit in the odd round of golf.

Art teacher Madge Shaw said she would miss the creative pupils and staff.

"It was quite an emotional day when we all left. There were lots of nice speeches and personal presents. A collection was made and we were all presented with cheques," she added.