JOINING Cheriton Bishop School as a supply teacher when George Austin was headteacher, Linda Brimacombe retires this term, after 29 years on the staff.

Linda, who lives near Yeoford, has seen many changes and an increase in the number of pupils and is now teaching the children of pupils she had previously taught.

"When I first came here, a couple of parents helped me to replace the old pond which had cracked. Now that has gone with the new school on top of that area," said Linda.

After training, Linda worked first at Heathcoat Infants School in Tiverton. When her daughter was born, Linda gave up teaching for a while.

When she returned it was as a supply teacher at Cheriton Bishop. "I came here temporarily - and stayed," she said. Linda has since worked with four headteachers at the school. "All very different but all lovely to work for," she added.

She is looking forward to having more time to spend with her alpaca, plus things such as taking the dog for a walk in the daylight. "A real luxury," she commented.

"I shall have chance to get the garden straight. For 30 years I have never had the time. I will now be able to pop over to Australia to see my friends.

"I also look forward to not having all this paper work. This is the one thing which, over the years, has increased so much that it takes the pleasure away from teaching children," said Linda.

The school term ended on December 18, Linda's last day. There was the usual carol service. with a celebration afterwards. Many people with present and past connections with the school attended.