A SPECIAL needs carer retired from Emneth Nursery School on Friday after working there for 21 years. Despite turning 60 in May, Maria White continued on until the end of the school year to help families and children who have needed extra support. Parents

A SPECIAL needs carer retired from Emneth Nursery School on Friday after working there for 21 years.

Despite turning 60 in May, Maria White continued on until the end of the school year to help families and children who have needed extra support.

Parents pitched in together to buy Mrs White a crystal candle holder as a leaving present while staff bought her an owl sculpture.

Deputy head Susan Clarke said: "We have really changed over the years, first being a nursery school, then day care and now a children's centre.

"She has seen everyone come and go and always has a smile. She will be missed."

Maria will use her spare time to continue heritage work she carries out in the village.

She will also return to her passion of flower arranging and will also be helping out on the farm with husband Mike and daughter Vanessa.