From me to you, Sir Paul wishes janitor a happy retirement
HE is a lifelong Beatles fan and would often sing their greatest hits while carrying out his duties as a school janitor.
So at a special assembly of pupils and teachers to mark his retirement, Andy Cairns was stunned to get a very special note – from Sir Paul McCartney himself.
Pupils at Edinburgh’s St Cuthbert’s RC Primary School had written to the music legend, asking him to send the letter to mark Mr Cairns’ last day at work.
Speaking after the presentation, the janitor, who turned 65 this week, said: ‘I’m a big Beatles fan. The kids had sent letters to his office and he responded, which was amazing. I’m overwhelmed. I thought I was in a dream at first. Words can’t describe it, I’m such a fan. It’s just amazing.’
Mr Cairns is retiring after 50 years of work, primarily as a mechanic.
He has been at the school for four years. The note from the star reads: ‘The children of St Cuthburt’s (sic) have sent me lots of letters to tell me how much they like you so I reckon you must be quite a good guy. I want to wish you all the very best on your retirement and remember keep Rockin’!’
The school assembly held for Mr Cairns included a This is your Life event, which was attended by his family and friends. Teacher Jennifer Lawrie, who came up with the idea of contacting Sir Paul, said: ‘I thought, “Why don’t we just give it a go?” Andy sings The Beatles from the minute he gets in the door to the minute he leaves.
‘Sir Paul McCartney is one of the most famous people in the world and the fact that he has taken time out of his very busy schedule to write a letter just means the world to Andy.’