'Amazing' and 'awesome' Mansfield school dinner lady retires after 38 years

Brenda Needham, 70, is retiring from her role at Crescent Primary School, on Booth Crescent next week.

She lives on Booth Crescent and is a mum to three daughters, and has three grand-daughters. Four generations of her family have all been pupils at the school.

Brenda, who retires on Friday, December 18, is also well known as a Bull Farm former lollipop lady working for 22 years on Abbott Road.

Her daughter Lisa Harris, school administrative assistant, said: “She is well loved and sad to be leaving and it took a lot of thinking before she finally decided to give it up. She’s a bit of a celebrity known by generations who went to the school. We can’t go anywhere without someone recognising her!”

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Brenda said: “It’s been the best time of my life! I'm always happy to go to work. I’ve made many great friends. In the early days, Mrs Hutchinson would send us out with the children to theme parks. I loved going on the water flume and particularly enjoyed singing time, playing games, Christmas and of course, refereeing the football!

"I was Mrs Spray's first dinner lady, now she is an amazing headteacher. Everyone is so nice, I’m going to miss them immensely. I have made some lifelong friends. I’ll always do what I can for such a fantastic school.”

Team leader Debbie Tucker: “Brenda, our legend is one amazing, awesome midday supervisor. It's been an absolute privilege working with her and an honour to congratulate her on her standout career.

“We thank her for being a tireless and helpful co-worker and a good friend. She’ll be remembered for keeping the children safe and making fond memories of happy times to treasure.”

Headteacher Rachel Spray said: “Brenda has devoted many hours of her life to Crescent Primary School, formally known as Bull Farm First School. Every single day Brenda comes to work with a smile on her face and spring in her step.

"She never has a cross word about anyone. She knows everyone and is a friend to all.

"We will miss her positivity, enthusiasm, and kind nature. Most of all the kids will miss her on the football pitch!”

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