HE has inspired thousands of children in a prestigious teaching career spanning more than three decades.

So it was fitting that on his final day a Hampshire headteacher was introduced to two new pupils he will never forget.

Alastair Dodds paid an emotional farewell to staff and pupils at Stroud School when he received an surprise retirement gift of two alpacas.

The adorable animals were presented to him and delighted wife Sarah - who is also retiring from her role as art and an drama teacher at the preparatory school in North Baddesley.

The presentation marked the climax heartfelt tributes to the couple with pupils of all ages hosting spectacular music, dance and poetry performances - rounded off by teachers singing a mass rendition of Frank Sinatra's "I did it my way".

The Alpacas named Dodds and Nod - which was one of Mrs Dodds' childhood nicknames - are moving into the school's onsite farm already home to chickens, goats and and Welsh Mountain ponies Clippy and Button.

It continues the legacy of Mr Dodds who set up the farm to share his love of animals and the outdoors.

The 60-year-old who began teaching 30 years ago, eventually rising to head in 1994, said: "It's the best leaving present I could have wished for!

"It's a brilliant idea, it's a legacy and it's so important for children to learn from and take responsibility of animals."

He hailed the leaving bash as one of his fondest memories along with the couple's wedding reception held there in 1980 - plus countless carol services and sports games.

The geography and PE teacher, who wants to develop a young persons' mental health service in his retirement, said: "I have so many mixed feelings and emotions. tThere are so many memories it's hard to pick one.

"But I am really proud of how passionate and talented the staff and pupils are and I'm glad we are retiring with the school in a really good state and in a happy place."

Mrs Dodd's father Andrew Sanger Davies was headmaster from 1960-1984 and mother Elizabeth headteacher until 1994 when Mr Dodds took over.

The Dodds' children William, 29, and Ellie, 27, were also pupils there.

Mrs Dodds who wants to get involved in riding schools for people with disabilities, said: "We have a great team of staff here.

"There is a family atmosphere here - children enjoy themselves and have fun learning here."

Deputy head Becky Lyons said Mr Dodds is "like a father" to the school and added: "He has created an environment where everyone is happy in their learning and it is like saying farewell to your mum and dad."

Joel Worrall will take over as headteacher in September.