THE end of an era has arrived at Shrewton School, where head teacher Kay Simpson has retired after a 26-year association with the schoolwith plans to swap her desk for a wedding ring.

Parents, children, staff and governors gathered last week to say a fond farewell to the lady who pioneered an African link for the school, raised large sums with her innovative Roundhouse Fayres and latterly has watched a long-awaited building programme finish its first phase at the school.

Her parting gift to them is to pay for a visit next term by two teachers from South Africa who will arrive for her wedding, then spend ten days working with the children.

Kay arrived in Shrewton with her children Paul and Helen in 1980, and was immediately headhunted for the PTA. She continued her involvement with the school, joining the staff as a teacher 11 years ago, and became acting head in May 2000, after the previous head teacher Jacqui Monckton left, then official head five months later.

Her achievements include the Roundhouse Fayres, which have been held every couple of years, raising as much as £4,000, and the twinning with Phumzile, a school in a poor black township near Pretoria. Two women teachers from the school will be visiting in September, and the head teacher, Dr Themba Madziba, sent his congratulations to Kay on her retirement.

"I have always felt it is very important for the children to raise their eyes above the horizon, especially in a rural community like ours," said Kay.

Another achievement is nearing completion the school has been extended to provide a proper staffroom, a classroom and a library area, with a disabled lavatory. Further improvements are planned.

Kay's retirement last week was marked by a series of treats laid on by the children, parents, staff and governors, including a ride in a decorated car, a meal out with the governors and a tea party in the school hall.

Among the guests were the previous head Jacqui Monckton, past and present governors, including Shrewton vicar Sue Armitage, and villagers, who watched as Kay was presented with a hostess trolley.

The PTA also gave her a custom made crystal Roundhouse, modelled on the village landmark jail.

Kay confessed to a few tears, but thanked everyone for all their support over the years, especially her staff. "It has meant the world to have them behind me."

Kay, 60, is due to wed Shrewton parish council chairman Peter Sweet at St Mary's Church on September 9, and the couple will make their home near the school in Chapel Lane.