PUPILS at Petersfield Infant School have started their new term without their much-missed caretaker who has retired after 17 years.

But the wise words of Peter Gray, who had been in the post since 1999, will no doubt stay with them through their time at the school off Hylton Road.

He surprised children and staff on his last day, at the end of the spring term, by standing up in assembly to encourage the children to continue to behave well and to strive to do their best in class.

“I think it is so important in those foundation years. If you have that, the rest comes easily,” he said.

It was an emotional moment for Peter when the whole school sang to him during his leaving assembly.

They gave a rousing rendition of their school song, which was his favourite.

He had a great relationship with the children, and will miss them all.

“I was very happy in the job and the school has a really nice atmosphere. The children would all chat to me,” he added. “It keeps you young.”

Aged 69 though, he felt it was the right time to retire as the job, which involved cleaning, odd jobs and repairs, was fairly physically demanding.

He was presented with a watch and an orchid, and parents donated towards chocolates, a rose, and £100 worth of gardening vouchers.

A keen gardener at his home in Torberry Drive, Petersfield, he intends to spend the vouchers on some shrubs for his borders.

“I don’t have many plans. Just more gardening and taking it easy,” he said.

Deputy headteacher Allyson Crew said Peter “lived, ate and slept the school”.

It seemed as though he had always been there.

“He’s always been completely reliable and dependable, and part of the furniture of the school.

“He would always open and close up, and helped set up and clear up events such as the Christmas fair run by the parents’ association.

“He would always go the extra mile,” she said.

“He also had a very strong bond with the children, and always had time to stop and chat.

“He was very keen at the assembly to get up and say a few words about always doing their best.”

The children have written a message to him on the school’s website –?“Good bye Mr Gray – we will miss you!