A TEACHER who has worked for three decades in the school she attended as a child has been thanked for her dedication.

Valerie Watson first stepped through the doors of Dean Bank County Girls School, in Ferryhill, as a nine-year-old pupil when her family moved to the town.

In 1975, she returned to Dean Bank Infants School, as it was known, to teach the reception class and now teaches five and six-year- olds at Dean Bank Primary School.

She said: "From the age of five teaching is all I ever wanted to do. I've been very settled and happy at Dean Bank and never thought of moving to another school.

"The children are lovely and it is wonderful to see them progress through the school.

"Many come back to tell me how they are doing, some are parents of children I am now teaching.

"I live in Ferryhill and feel part of the community which is very close to my heart."

Mrs Watson runs the cross country team and choir, transports youngsters to sports fixtures and is subject leader for maths.

Headteacher Chris Young said: "Mrs Watson is a top class teacher, she is what education in Durham is all about. She always goes the extra mile to offer the best education and pastoral support to children and their families."

Yesterday, Dave Ford, chief inspector of Durham Local Education Authority, presented a certificate of appreciation to Mrs Watson, and staff, pupils and governors gave her gifts.