Ysgol Y Creuddyn's Gaynor Roberts marks 40 years of service!

Gaynor Roberts, 77, of Glan Conwy, was presented her flowers, a certificate and a gift to mark 40 years of service at Ysgol Y Creuddyn in Penrhyn Bay. 

The celebration came as a "complete surprise" to Mrs Roberts, who has grown-up daughters Jennifer, Susan and Helen as well as grandchildren Anya, Jay and Amarah and great-granddaughter Florence, aged four.

Headteacher Trefor Jones with Gaynor Roberts. (Image: Submitted)

Mrs Roberts, who works in the school canteen, started in the kitchen in 1982, one year after the school opened.

"'Apparently my daughters did know what was happening, but they hid it well," Mrs Roberts said. 

"I was called to school for a so-called meeting and then I was totally surprised. I did shed a few tears.

"I've enjoyed it all; meeting all the different pupils over the years has been wonderful. 

"When I first started in the job, I used to assist in the kitchen but my main job has always been on the till, so I've always been face-to-face with the children."

Mrs Roberts with her canteen colleagues. (Image: Submitted)

Talking about some of her highlights and memories over the years, Mrs Roberts commented: "'The kitchen had a total renovation and that took some getting used to and our tills went digital. I didn't know if I'd be able to cope at first but I soon got the hang of it.

"There isn't one specific memory that comes to mind, but I can definitely say the highlight of my time at the school has been mixing with all the children every day over the years, they've kept me feeling young."

Gaynor Roberts (centre) with her certificate and flowers. (Image: Submitted)

Mrs Roberts sadly lost her husband Clive in 1993. He was aged 55.

"Work was always a good distraction and has helped me," Mrs Roberts added. 

"Before working at the school I was a full-time mother and when my third daughter started school at four, I looked for full-time work.

"Someone told me about a vacancy at Ysgol Y Creuddyn as a kitchen assistant, so I applied."

Headteacher Trefor Jones and officials from Conwy County Borough Council held the small presentation for Mrs Roberts to mark her commitment to the school. Mrs Roberts received a certificate for 40 years, flowers, a thank you letter from Conwy Council, a card from Mr Jones and a gift of her choice to choose at a later date.

Jennifer, Susan and Helen with their mother, Gaynor Roberts. (Image: Submitted)

Jennifer, Susan and Helen then took their mother to Bodysgallen Hall for an afternoon tea to celebrate.

Mrs Roberts said: "It was lovely for my work and contribution to be recognised. We all work hard, and I've always enjoyed my job so to have someone say 'thank you' after so many years was really wonderful.

"'I hope to stay on a little longer, I'm not ready to hang up my apron just yet. I enjoy going into work so why stop?"