TRIBUTES have been paid to three teachers, who are retiring after clocking up nearly 80 years service between them.

David Crompton and Denis Kemp are retiring from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, and Mike Winstanley is planning a change of career.

Mr Crompton, head of chemistry, joined the college in 1965.

He said: "I've enjoyed working with colleagues in the department and with students and I'm sure I'll miss this daily contact." Mr Kemp, the college's principal tutor, is also retiring after 22 years.

He came to teach physics in 1983, having previously taught for eight years at King James' School, in Bishop Auckland, and was promoted to his current pastoral role 11 years ago.

He said: "It has been so rewarding working with the students and I'm going to miss them and the staff."

English teacher Mr Winstanley has been with the college for 17 years and is now hoping to open a vegetarian restaurant. He also intends to do voluntary work.

"I will certainly miss all my colleagues and the contact with students, who have been a privilege to teach over the years," he said.

College principal David Heaton said: "All three have given tremendous service to the college and we wish them all the very best as they enter the next, rather exciting, phase of their lives."