A MARGARET THATCHER government, Northern Ireland make it to a World Cup quarter-final and the release of iconic film 'Ghandi'; a lot has changed since a much loved caretaker took on his role.

But now, after 36-years of service Ralph Payne has hung up his overalls and bid farewell to the school he loves.

In a "loo roll" of honour, youngsters from Sholing Junior School waved Mr Payne's tools of the trade on his last day.

Starting his career at the school in 1982, Mr Payne enjoyed nearly four decades at Sholing after laying down his roots.

He looked after three generations of children while at Sholing.

During an emotional send-off, pupils and staff led their tributes in a special assembly, in which former headteacher David Daws address the school on the caretaker he employed all those years ago.

Headteacher Marc Parnell said: "Ralph has been a stalwart of the school community since the school was established on Middle road and has been a stable influence during some turbulent times.

"We wish him well in his retirement and he will be sorely missed."

Reflecting on his time, Mr Payne added: "I've loved the friendly atmosphere of the staff and pupils and i'll miss it very much they've all become friends."

Other staff members also praised the outgoing caretaker, with Paul Langston saying the "larger than life" Mr Payne would be "dearly missed by everyone".

He added: "His cheerful and welcoming personality has been a feature of many generations of children within the community, welcoming them through the school gates, always happy to listen and support adults and children alike.

"The children showed their love for the bigger than life character by forming a tunnel of honour and waving many of the tools of his trade in appreciation for the dedication and love he has put into the maintaining of the school over the many years.

"Ralph Payne will be a great loss to the school community."

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