A SCHOOL caretaker has locked up for the final time after almost two decades in the job.
Peter Ballinger started working at Wilmcote Primary back in 1997 but having spent 19 years at the Church Road school, he has now decided the time is right to retire.
And despite numerous early starts and late finishes, the 69-year-old says he will never forget his time there.
He told the Observer: “I have had many happy years as caretaker of Wilmcote School. The school gives children a strong start in life – guiding them when they are young.
“Some of those children have been more memorable than others but the ones I have met later on in life when they are at high school have always shown me they have, and will continue, to make something of their lives.
“I would like to thank all past and present teachers and children – they have made my years here happy and I have many good memories to take with me.
“Special thanks also go to Margaret Sheldon who gave me the job in the first place and Liz Banyard for putting up with me for so long – I wish both them and Wilmcote School a very happy and successful future!”
Headteacher, Liz Banyard, added: “Pete Ballinger has been part of the school for such a long time.
“We will miss his cheerful presence at the school gate – not forgetting the class of the week ‘feather duster’ award. Pete has been a great site manager and we will find it very difficult to replace him.”
