Surprise afternoon tea marks end of 22 year career for Burnley teaching assistant

A surprise afternoon tea was the treat colleagues laid on for Anne Bannister to mark her final day at the Burnley school where she has worked for 22 years.
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Teaching assistant Anne had no idea about the surprise farewell at Holy Trinity Primary School.

Staff decorated the hall with bunting and set out little tables for the party and the special guests were her husband Ian and their sons Brent and Damon.

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A display of photographs of Anne throughout her time at the school, provided by her family, were put on display and Ian even organised an Anne themed quiz and bingo session!

Anne celebrates her retirement at the afternoon tea with her husband Ian and sons Brent and DamonAnne celebrates her retirement at the afternoon tea with her husband Ian and sons Brent and Damon
Anne celebrates her retirement at the afternoon tea with her husband Ian and sons Brent and Damon

Headteacher Sally Smith said: "It was a lovely afternoon and a complete surprise for Anne who was so pleased and said that it was just perfect.

"Anne will be missed by the staff and pupils on so many levels. She is caring, funny, was completed dedicated to her role and really enjoyed working with the children and watching them progress."

But staff and pupils have not seen the last of Anne as she has promsed to go back and help out when she can.

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