AFTER chalking up 44 years at the same school, Frances Lysyj closed the school gates behind her for the last time.
The headteacher of St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School retired last month.
She attended the Heaton school as a child and returned when she qualified as a teacher.
A retirement mass was held with pupils and staff, some who had left and returned for the special service, governors and members of the community.
The service ended with the specially written song, "Thank You Mrs Lysyj — The Time Has Come" followed by a flash mob with staff and children dancing to "Reach Out I'll Be There".
Mrs Lysyj, who lives in Bolton, was recognised in 2016 with The Bolton News Primary Head Teacher Award for her dedication and commitment to the school.
Vice-Chairman of the governing body, Dominic Holden said: "The day of celebrations started with a whole school photograph of 420 pupils and all staff.All those associated with the school, past and present, will miss her calm and dignified presence and wish Frances a long, happy and healthy retirement."
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