A TEACHER has been rewarded for his dedication to a school after working there for 25 years.

Bruce Probert, who lives next to door to Great Kingshill Combined School in Cryers Hill Road, Cryers Hill, is the second longest-serving member of staff, even though the school has been going for 126 years.

Mr Probert, 56, said: "The only other person to be there longer than me was a lady called Miss Tarbox and she started as a student teacher at 20 years old and stayed until she was 65. I don't think anyone will ever beat that."

He added: "I have been here so long that some children have come back to teach here.

"Also I am now teaching the children of the kids that I used to teach years ago. I feel dinosaur-like absolutely ancient."

However he says he loves his job and is looking forward to his last three years at the school until retirement.

He said: "I love the fact that lots of people have stayed in the area. Although I live next door and I am never too far from the school, I have a lot of affection for the place. The kids are very easy to teach here."

Mr Probert said he did not really think of the achievement until he was presented with a bottle of wine and a vase at a special assembly.

He said: "I must admit I did shed a tear."