June Wigg, (front right) celebrates the Jubilee at the Norfolk County Council tea party. Picture: Denise Bradley

A selfless stalwart at a Hellesdon school was given a surprise send-off yesterday after 43 years of service.

June Wigg has been a classroom assistant, school secretary, chair of governors and even stepped in as a teacher for a three-month spell during her early days at Heather Avenue Infant School.

Yesterday she was guest of honour at the school’s end-of-year concert, when she was presented with gifts from governors and children and staff at the school.

Mrs Wigg, who celebrated her diamond wedding anniversary with husband Cyril in March, and her 80th birthday earlier this month, said she had only realised the concert was for her when she saw her daughter and granddaughter in the audience.

“I had no idea at all that it was for me,” she said. “It was all unbelievable.”

Mrs Wigg, of Coppice Avenue, added: “I tried to retire once before, and managed about six months before I missed the children so much I had to come back.”

Following the school concert and pupil talent contest, Mrs Wigg cut a cake in the shape of the school, and received a flamingo and the school’s traditional leaving present, a heather bush.

She said education had changed “drastically” in her time at the school, but that Heather Avenue had kept its family feel.

“It’s still a warm, friendly school, and everyone feels a part of it.

“I remember seeing a lot of people who were at the concert as parents, and now they are back as grandparents.”

She added: “It’s fantastic to see them coming back. I used to give them a hug, and now they are giving me a hug.”

Heather Avenue headteacher Sheela Bream-Hardy thanked Mrs Wigg on behalf of the countless children she has helped during their time at Heather Avenue.

She said: “June has been incredibly loyal, hardworking and caring in all this time, and completes her time with us on a high note having supported us in achieving our outstanding Ofsted accolade in March this year.”