30 years and Ernie’s never missed a day at school

FOND farewell: youngsters at St Chad’s CE school say goodbye to Ernie Knox

UNASSUMING Ernie Knox has proved himself a hard act to follow at a Saddleworth primary school.

In 30 years the smiling centre manager at St Chad’s CE school, Uppermill, hasn’t missed a day’s work.

His incredible devotion to duty has been celebrated by the school and his family at a surprise gathering to mark his retirement.

They packed into the school hall for a special, emotionally-charged school assembly to pay tribute to shy Ernie’s unflinching efforts.

In a letter to parents of the 275 children at the school, headteacher Peter Burnley spoke with affection about Ernie.

“After 30 years of dedicated, uninterrupted service Ernie has decided it’s time to put down the mop and vacuum and spend some time putting his feet up and planning to enjoy some long-awaited travelling.

“Will the staff miss him? Of that, nothing has ever been more certain,” he declared.

“Ernie has been the best advocate and ambassador for St Chad’s anyone could ever wish for. He has supported us all unswervingly and we will all be so sorry to see him go.”

Ernie retires at the end of the month. The school has already planted an oak tree in the grounds in his honour and at the party teachers wore T-shirts embossed with an “Ernie Days” logo and his picture.