A POPULAR mathematics teacher is returning to help on the family farm after 37 years in education.

Dorothy Bainbridge's retirement will allow her to spend more time with her family and husband Morris, on the farm at Baldersdale.

Mrs Bainbridge has spent 14 years teaching mathematics at Darlington's Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College.

After taking her degree at Newcastle University, she began her career at Darlington Girls' High School, now Hummersknott School and Languages College, in 1965.

She joined the sixth form college in 1987 and was in charge of GCSE mathematics, also teaching the subject to A-level and for Access courses.

She also developed a deaf awareness course as an option.

"Teaching has been a joy," said Mrs Bainbridge.

"I have loved to see students doing well, and I am bound to miss it, as it takes over your whole life.