PUPILS are saying farewell to their headteacher, who is stepping down this week after 14 years in the post.

Heather Eaton, 51, is retiring from St Oswald's Infant School, in Durham, tomorrow.

She said: "I have loved it here with the wonderful, family-orientated atmosphere we have fostered over the years.

"I will be very sad to go and will miss the pupils and adult friends I have made during my time here.

"Everyone has been very kind to me and I have been absolutely overwhelmed by it all."

Mrs Eaton, of Sedgefield, decided to take early retirement after her husband sold his business last year.

She said: "We now have time to spend together, but all I know at this stage is that we plan to travel a lot.

"Teachers always have to plan, but for the first time in years I have the luxury of not having to do that."

Mrs Eaton said goodbye to former pupils and colleagues at coffee mornings last week, and there will be a farewell service for her at St Oswald's Church today.