A CARETAKER has retired after devoting 23 years to a school.

Mick Cantwell, 66, of Bromfords Drive, Wickford, has retired from Castledon Special School, Wickford.

Staff and pupils were sad to see Mr Cantwell leaving and threw a party for him at the school on Saturday.

Around 150 people turned up and Mr Cantwell was given an iPod as a parting gift.

As well as caretaker, Mr Cantwell has also acted as stock man for the school’s farm and bus driver for trips.

Mr Cantwell said: “I’ve loved working at the school and all the kids know me as Mick. Even years after they have left, I get some students knocking on my door and checking up on me.”

He said he was sad to be leaving the post – but the time was right for retirement.