Staff and children bid a fond farewell to dinner lady Cherry
STUDENTS and teachers have paid an emotional farewell to a beloved member of staff as she retires at the age of 80.
St Teresa’s Catholic Infant and Nursery School in Birkdale, in Southport, said a huge thank you to Cherry Bennett for her many years looking after pupils.
Cherry has been with the school for 10 years, after beginning working there aged 70.
Prior to working at St Teresa’s, Cherry led an adventurous life; working as a nurse, living abroad, enjoying dancing, making and decorating cakes and bringing up her family in Southport.
She has previously worked as a barmaid and at William Hill.
Cherry has a son and daughter, and four grandchildren Teddy, Billy, Thea and Johnny.
On her last day at school, Cherry stood at her gate while staff and pupils walked by leaving gifts and saying their goodbyes from a safe social distance.
St Teresa’s headteacher Louise Morton said: “During her time at our school she became a loving and friendly grandma figure to the children.
“Always glamorous, with a warm and caring nature, she adored spending time with the little ones.
“She made many wonderful cakes with fabulous decorations for staff and pupils, which often showed her cheeky sense of humour.
For 10 years she brought home made fairy cakes for the children winning a place on the Golden table every Friday.
“During her time at the school she spent time supervising all the age groups but loved the little ones the most.
“She read with the children every lunchtime. On school social occasions Cherry is always the life and soul of the party.
“All the children and staff will be very sad to see her leave and hope to see her again in the future as a volunteer when we are able to.”