STUNNED by the surprise announcement of her teacher of the month win, Veronica Hesketh was left speechless as she collected her award.

The 53-year-old was met with a rapturous applause by pupils from St Benedict's Primary School on Quebec Road in Orford on Monday after she was unveiled as the winner of the Warrington Guardian award.

She said: "I'm so surprised. This is really surreal. I can't believe it.

"It's not something you expect to happen when you are just doing your job."

Mrs Hesketh, who grew up in Orford but now lives in Walton, has been working as a teacher at the school for 22 years after qualifying aged 31.

She said: "I wanted to do something that wasn't just a paid job.

"The response from the children is just incredible and it makes each day rewarding.

"I am teaching children now whose parents I also taught when they were younger."

Mrs Hesketh was praised for her enthusiasm in lessons and the support she offers to pupils on a day-to-day basis.

But, while accepting her award, Mrs Hesketh could not thank the pupils, parents and staff enough for making her 22 years in teaching so special.

She added: "I qualified when I was 31 and I have been here since which is a testament to the school.

"I love the children and they never fail to make me smile.

"It's hard to put my finger on exactly what it is but everyone who comes to the school says what a special feeling there is here."

Each month, the Warrington Guardian celebrates the hard work, dedication and achievements of one deserving teacher in the town.

The award, which is sponsored by education recruitment and training consultancy Academics Ltd, honours a teacher who has made a real difference to the school community.

To nominate a deserving teacher for next month’s teacher of the month award e-mail lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk.