A WOMAN who has taught both parents and their children during her career retired this week.

Angela Egan has been teaching three and four-year-olds in the nursery class at St Columba's RC Primary School, Hall i' th' Wood for the last 28 years.

Current pupil Katie Hill even had her mum, Caroline, taught by Mrs Egan. But at the age of 55, the devoted teacher has decided it is time to retire. Thanks were given by the whole school, plus past colleagues and invited guests, at a special mass. A reception for the long-serving staff member followed, when she was presented with gifts from the parents and teachers association, colleagues, pupils and the governors.

Mrs Egan plans to spend more time with husband Kevin and her three grown-up children, as well as devoting more time to travelling and gardening.

Headteacher Noreen Collins said: "She has been a mainstay of the school for as long as anyone can remember."

Mrs Egan is a regular worshipper at St Columba's Church and plans to continue her role helping preparing children for confirmation.