A Wimbledon headteacher is retiring after 42 years of teaching, and 16 years of leadership.

Sue Tomes, from Wimbledon Chase Primary School in Merton Hall Road joined the school in 1975.

The school will celebrate her career at a family fun day on July 1.

The event promises a Tomes-bola and a memorabilia marquee dedicated to Mrs Tomes' times at the school. Former French teacher Mrs Tomes started up the family day in 1978, an event attended by pupils past and present.

Mrs Tomes originally joined the school when it was Wimbledon Chase Middle School, and had five forms of entry. She said: “Things were very different when I first started. There was no national curriculum, no SATs tests and no computers.

"Mr Hawkins was the Headteacher during my first year, followed by Mr Kefford and then Mr Hardy.

"I was made the Head of French after just 2 months at the school, then Year 8 Coordinator and became Senior Mistress in 1981 when Mrs Silver retired. I was appointed as Deputy Head in 1985.”

Mrs Tomes became Headmistress in 2001. During her tenure she has cared for approximately 3,500 children.

She said: “I am very proud to be the Headteacher of Wimbledon Chase and will miss the children and members of staff tremendously. The school is a family with a strong community spirit and I have been privileged to lead it.

"My proudest moment was when Wimbledon Chase was granted ‘Outstanding’ status by Ofsted. Although I am sad to be leaving, I'm looking forward to discovering a new life and having a rest after so many years of work."