A POPULAR pre-school supervisor has been thanked for putting in 25 years of hard work.

Marian Deacon started Noak Bridge Pre-School, in Coppice Lane, back in 1985 and has been there ever since.

Staff, youngsters and parents turned out to honour Marian, 53, and to thank her for her dedication with a surprise celebration yesterday.

Marian was presented with flowers, tickets to a West End show and a plaque proclaiming “why God created teachers”, for her efforts.

Marian, of Crouch Street, Noak Bridge, said: “I was very shocked. I didn’t know anything about the surprise celebration, but it was lovely.

“I was very touched by all the people who came along.

“I’ve seen a lot of children come through the school over the past 25 years and have enjoyed every minute of it.

“This is a very happy place and it’s so nice to be recognised for being part of it.”

Marian began the pre-school in a small hall in Crouch Street, but soon decided to move it to a bigger venue as the children couldn’t make much noise and didn’t have a place to display their work.

Within three years the school had moved to bigger premises within the grounds of Noak Bridge Primary School.

Marian has continued to work as a supervisor at the school and is adored by the young pupils.

Marisa Foster, secretary of the Noak Bridge Pre-School Committee, said: “Many children have passed through Marian’s hands over the past 25 years. Adults come up to her in the town and talking and reflecting on the wonderful times they had as a child at the pre-school.

“Some have sent their own children there and are pleased and surprised Marian is still there.

“Marian is a much-loved and respected member of the school by staff and children, past and present. We are delighted to be able to congratulate and thank her on 25 years service.”