AFTER 15 wonderful years, Ashwater Primary School’s administrator has decided now is the time to take a step back.

Mrs Mandy Furse will be sorely missed by all at the school, and the children even co-wrote a special farewell song to show their gratitude to all the hard work she has put in over the years.

Executive headteacher Mrs Ruth Alford said: “Sadly Mrs Furse, our long-standing administrator has decided to devote more time to the family business and therefore will be leaving us this Wednesday.

“Mandy has always said she would not leave Ashwater until she felt it was thriving so I think we should take it as a compliment! That said, I will personally be very sad to see Mandy leave. She has been an outstanding support to me as executive headteacher since I joined four years ago.

“Her commitment to the school goes back-long before my time as she has been in post for 15 years. Her knowledge of the history of the school and important people to school and village life have been invaluable.

“I am sure parents will agree that Mandy’s warm and welcoming face of the school, will be missed.”

Locals shared their memories online and wished Mrs Furse well in the future.

One parent said: “Good luck, I remember my daughter’s year there with your boys. Such happy days, was the perfect start in life for them all.”

Another added: “Best wishes Mandy, I was there with your boys and you were always helpful in the office. Now the fifth generation of my family is at the school with my great granddaughter being there, so hope it continues to thrive.”