A GOVERNOR is stepping down after more than 30 years on the board of a primary school.

Pupils at Shotley Bridge Primary School have said a fond farewell to Michael McBride, the chairman of the governing body.

The father-of-two was presented with a card and enjoyed a special lunch with staff at the school yesterday.

Mr McBride, a health and safety advisor with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, joined as governor in the mid-80s and became chairman in 1992.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a governor but it is time to pass on the baton to someone else.”

Mr McBride, 57, of Shotley Bridge, helped oversee the merger of the Shotley Bridge infant and junior schools to form the primary school last year.

He has been at the school for five OFSTED inspections, four ‘good’ with one ‘outstanding’ rating in 2015.

Headteacher Martin Bell said: “The really important thing is he has seen the role change an awful lot from being not just being supportive, but to challenge the role of leadership at the school as well. That is part of the reason the school has from good to outstanding. He has helped us strive for excellence.”