AFTER almost 30 years of educating generations of children across Gloucestershire, a teacher from Cam has retired.

Annette Heylings, 58, taught her last lesson at Cam Everlands Primary School yesterday after 28 years of teaching.

The mum-of-two has taught at Cam Everlands for the past 23 years, having previously been a teacher at Slimbridge Primary School, Newent and Drybrook in the Forest of Dean.

She said: "I have a passion for educating the whole child and love to see them grow and develop.

"I have stayed at this school as long as I have because it is warm, friendly and caring. I have been part of an excellent team and I have been very proud to be part of Cam Everlands."

Mrs Heylings said she is going to use her retirement to go travelling and concentrate on her running. In September she will be taking part in the Great North Run, which will be her seventh half marathon.

However, despite her plans Mrs Heylings, who specialised in music, said she would miss teaching.

She said: "I have had lots of laughs with my colleagues and support from them and I will miss the delightful moments with the children."

She added: "I have been so proud to be part of this particular school, and such a friendly team."

Ian Dixon, head teacher at Cam Everlands, said: "Annette has been a fantastic servant of the school and we will really miss her.

"She has given a lot to the school in a leadership capacity as well as being a really good teacher."

In recognition of her commitment to teaching in the county, Gloucestershire County Council presented Mrs Heylings with a long service award, which was presented by Dursley Mayor, Cllr Jane Ball.