Claret themed gifts hit back of the net for Burnley fan David as he steps down from role as school supervisor

But his wife Anne Marie may not agree as she is a Blackburn Rovers fan!

Although staff, children and parents could not give David the usual send off from Wheatley Lane Methodist Primary School in Fence they were determined to mark his special day in the best way they could to recognise his dedication and hard work.

The children made cards for him and he was also presented with cards from staff both past and present. And among David's gifts were a claret and blue mug and a Burnley gnome figurine.

David has taken early retirement on health grounds. Diagnosed with type one diabetes when he was 15, David has suffered complications due to the condition over the years but never let this affect his work.

Paying tribute to him, headteacher Mrs Tracy Hallows said: "David continued to come to work on days when he was far from well, always with a smile and putting 100% effort into all he did.

"He will be missed by staff, children and parents. He was always a cheery face on the gate in the morning, except when parents parked on the zig zag lines."

A big party is on the cards to mark David's retirement when Covid 19 restrictions allow.