A caretaker who rescued countless balls from the school roof and has always been available to offer a helping hand, celebrated 30 years of looking after a Surbiton school.
Steve Bassett marked three decades at Grand Avenue Primary School this week.
The school put on a surprise celebratory party for Mr Bassett who was given presents and an iced cake on Monday afternoon – the exact day marking his 30 years of service to the primary school.
Deputy headteacher Anna McKenna said: “Staff, children and governors surprised Steve.
“As he opened the staffroom door at lunchtime he was greeted with a huge cheer.
“Steve has always viewed our school as part of his home and is a very caring, lovely man. I have always counted on him.”
Year 6 students also told their caretaker why he was thought of so highly and the governing body presented him with a congratulatory letter.
Steve Bassett
Office manager Lynn Newell said: "He will remain in his role for many years to come."
Mr Bassett's family has been looking after Grand Avenue School for three generations, daughter Katie Smith said.
She added: "He just loves the school and the kids. Grand Avenue has been in our family for such a long time - that's probably why he is still there.
"He went to the school, I went to the school. He has seen it through so much."
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