A HEADTEACHER and his wife have waved goodbye to the school where they have both worked together for 17 years.

Now Jack Wood, 59, and his wife Megan also 59, of Earby, who worked at Bradley County Primary School, in Dover Street, Nelson, are looking forward to enjoying a well earned rest.

Jack and Megan say their retirement will be spent touring Europe on their mountain bikes, bought for them by staff.

Mr Woods, who has been at the school for two decades, felt that his 20th anniversary there was a good time to leave.

He said: "I though that it would be a good point to end my reign at the school, even though I am two terms short of reaching 60.

"We are both looking forward to spending some time at home together and enjoying our slightly early retirement. We enjoy walking in the country which is what we will be doing in our spare time."

A special commemorative assembly was held by staff and pupils to present their memories to the teachers that have educated them over the years.

All the children at the school drew a picture to present to Mr and Mrs Wood and the assembly was rounded off with a buffet lunch.

Jill Ackroyd, who will be taking over as headteacher, said that the school would not be the same without the hard-working couple.

Jill said: "They were both a huge part of the community and gave so much to the area. It is going to be a big loss to the school and the community.

"I think that they are both deserve a rest and can take the time to spend some time together."