A LONG serving member of staff has said an emotional goodbye to a Bromsgrove school she has worked at for nearly four decades.

Hilda Davies retired from South Bromsgrove High School after 39 years’ service at the school, at the end of this term.

During her time the 85-year-old has been supporting staff and the headteacher in a non-teaching role.

Current staff organised a celebration for her, with former colleagues attending to give her their best wishes.

Hilda has served under five headteachers during her career, and former headteacher Alan Baker was among those who came back to the school for the event.

Belinda Watts, from the Charford Road-based school, said Hilda had offered vital support and was now looking forward to her well-earned retirement.

Hilda said that although she will be officially retired, she does plan to continuing her support work in the community and for the Salvation Army.