TABLES were turned on headteacher Gill Deakin on Tuesday evening when a surprise farewell party was arranged to say thank-you and good luck to Gill as she leaves Pendock School to take up a new post with the LEA.

The school hall was filled to overflowing with colleagues, parents and grandparents when the This Is Your Life theme music started to play.

Gill's face was an absolute picture when the surprise presenter walked into the room (no, not Michael Aspel) carrying the famous book.

The Rev. Arthur Cunningham, who had been vicar of the benefice and governor of the school, had made a special visit with his wife, Elizabeth, just for Gill.

Many anecdotes and words of congratulation were expressed by so many. Gill has made an enormous impact on the school and village, which has been appreciated.

Her love, care and devotion extended beyond school hours and she was always arranging surprise parties and trips, sending cards to all her colleagues when different events and celebrations occurred. Gill's skills at getting the best out of every child is second to none, her Christmas concerts were an absolute joy and not to be missed, and everyone will miss her.

Always welcoming, her place and position is going to be a hard one to fill. Thank-you Gill and good luck.

Thank you to everyone who organised a memorable and emotional evening.