A primary school is set to bid a fond farewell to its much-loved cook after 24 years.

Joyce Jenkinson, 61, who lives locally, is set to retire from Waberthwaite C Of E Primary School on December 20.

The mum-of-two and grandmother of one first started at the school on Lane End in September 2000.

In that time she has become a much valued staff member, who does a lot more than cook, and has been affectionately nicknamed by the children as 'Mrs J'.

Mrs J preparing some 'pigs in blankets' for Christmas dinner  (Image: Esther Kirkbride) Headteacher Sandra Cummings said: ‘”We’ve got this!” are the words that ring out so often from the school kitchen as Mrs Jenkinson sets about yet another challenge.

"Whether it be the Christmas bingo that she organises for so many local groups; the community duck race to fundraise for the school; themed lunchtimes and teddy bears picnics; baking with pupils; the school entries for Waberthwaite gardening club children’s classes – Mrs J as she is affectionately known, never stops.

"Her roles can swiftly switch from making school lunches to officiating the ‘royal wedding’ in  Class 1 RE lesson about weddings or coaching the Class 3 cricket team.

"Mrs J’s school lunches are renowned and every year are a main feature of what our children will miss as they leave and move to secondary school.

"You will be missed Mrs J, but after giving so much to everyone for so long, now is the time to relax and invest your time in you.

"Thank you for everything you have done over the 24 years you have worked here, feeding generations of Waberthwaite children."

Mrs Jenkinson with her former work colleague and friend Nicola Brown (Image: Esther Kirkbride) 'Mrs J' became lifelong friends with her colleague Esther Kirkbride-Woodend, a higher level teaching assistant at Waberthwaite Primary School, throughout her time at the school.

Mrs Kirkbride-Woodend said: "We will all miss you very much Mrs J, you will always be at the heart of our school.

"You are so much more than the dinner lady, going above and beyond in your many hats that you wear. Christmas dinner day will never be the same. 

"Congratulations on your retirement and cheers to the next chapter."

Mrs Jenkinson says the decision to retire was not an easy one and she will miss all the staff and pupils that made her job so rewarding.

She added: "It was a really hard decision but it was just the right time. The next few weeks are going to be a bit of a rollercoaster as I'll be busy with the children and having fun with Christmas activities but it's going be very emotional.

"I will miss all of the lovely staff and children who I work with - they've always made me feel a real part of the school.

"I'm going to return in January for my official leaving do. I just wanted to leave quietly and disappear into the sunset but I knew they wouldn't let me do that.

"I'm looking forward to spending time with my grandson Isaac. He's only 18 months old so I look forward to getting up to mischief with him.

"I love gardening too so looking forward to having more time to spend in the garden."