SHE worked behind the scenes for 40 years and never wanted to make a fuss.

But Lin Brewer became the centre of attention as 100 pupils, parents and colleagues said goodbye to the "heart and soul" of their school.

Emotional tributes were paid to the woman known to generations as 'Mrs B', who did everything from sticking plasters to balancing the budget at Twyford St Mary's Primary School.

Pupils past and present travelled from as far as France to wish her luck in retirement, showering her with gifts and flowers.

Among the guests was Cynthia English, who taught Mrs Brewer at the school in the 1950s.

Fighting back tears as she addressed the packed hall, assistant headteacher Charlotte Wright said: "From everyone here, Lin, you are an absolute delight and you are the rock of this school.

"You have been the heart and soul of this place for so long, and we really appreciate that."

Mrs Brewer was presented with a huge book of messages and children's collages, as well as a painting of the school by parent Zoe Fisher.

And she was joined by families whom she has cared for across two generations.

Ex-pupil Sarah Williams, who is sending her second and third children through Twyford, said: "I was really hoping she'd stay until they could all go through!"

Hampshire Chronicle:

Mrs Brewer with Wendy Sullivan (left) and Sarah Williams

Mrs Brewer said: "It means a lot to have past staff here and people like Meryl [Duckhouse] travel through France just to be here. It's amazing, the support, and the parents are just wonderful.

"I was somebody who wants to be in the background, I don't want to be in the foreground. I want the school to be the best. I don't mean as far as SATs assessments go, I want it to be there for the whole child and nurture who they are. Every child has got a gift or a talent that they can use."

When she's not in the office, Mrs Brewer helps Winchester's homeless as a Street Pastor. She is using her retirement to pursue further voluntary work.

(Photos by James Newell)