A LONG-SERVING caretaker, renowned singing while he works, has said a fond farewell to a Pedmore primary school this Easter.

Chirpy Mike Marsden, aged 65, has retired from Ham Dingle Primary School after 14 years.

He has lived on the school site with his wife, Joan, since he took up the post but now he has hung up his broom, the couple will move to a new home in Wall Heath.

Headteacher, Joanne Davies, said: "Mike has been a much loved member of the Ham Dingle community since 2000 and he knows many parents and knows the names of most of the children.

"He will certainly be missed around the site, because of his upbeat attitude and his loud singing and joke telling.”

Mr Marsden, a former steel structure engineer, added: "I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every minute of my work at Ham Dingle. I am leaving an excellent school with fantastic staff and lovely parents and children. I will certainly miss the school but I'm also looking forward to a well earned rest to put my feet up and have a quiet sing-song to myself."

As a send off staff and pupils at the school presented Mike with a card and a new digital camera.