A MUCH-loved primary school teacher is set to retire after 35 years of teaching at Penketh South Primary School.

Mark Hayes has been a teacher at the primary school since 1986 and has taught multiple generations of families within the Penketh community.

Despite working on reduced hours after the past few years, Mr Hayes has given ‘everything’ to the school.

He currently works on Wednesdays and volunteers on a Monday with the reception class.

Head teacher, Mrs Grace, said: ‘‘It is so difficult to imagine Penketh South without Mark Hayes.

‘‘He has dignity and kindness and a passion for doing things right for the children.

‘‘After 35 years working for our school he will be so missed. We hope he enjoys his retirement and the next chapter of his life.’’

Admin assistant, Mrs Fletcher, said: ‘‘It only feels like yesterday I was a pupil at Penketh South in year four with Mark as my teacher. ‘‘Seeing his passion and enthusiasm continue today as it did years ago is inspiring.

‘‘His energy and commitment to the school is second to none, taking on our allotment and sports events, travelling from Wales every day and seeing multiple generations through our school.’’