Winscombe primary caretaker retires after more than 40 years service

Winscombe Primary School has bid farewell to one of its longest-serving staff members, caretaker Mr Hine.

The school was known as Woodborough Primary School when he first joined as caretaker. - Credit: Winscombe Primary School

Ian joined the school 42 years ago – when it was known as Woodborough Primary.

During the past four decades, he has taken up multiple posts alongside his caretaking role.

Mr Hind served as a firefighter for 27 years of his time at Winscombe Primary School. - Credit: Winscombe Primary School

For 27 years Mr Hine served as a firefighter at Winscombe’s retained fire station which would require him to down tools and join a call when needed.

Five headteachers have come and gone during his tenure and current federation bursar, Mrs Balcombe remembers Ian from her time as a student.

A ceremony was held in the school’s playground with Ian and his Celia, who also spent 20 years at the school as a dinner lady.

A thank you speech was delivered by headteacher Miss Muxworthy and the couple were presented with a card and gift from students, staff and parents.