Last updated at 09:30, Friday, 23 December 2011

A Keswick headteacher and staunch supporter of Carlisle United football club had a surprise visit from the team’s manager Greg Abbott to mark her retirement.

Sara Miller gets a retirement present from Greg Abbott

Sara Miller, who served as headteacher for St Herbert’s Primary and Nursery School from 2005, retired last Friday.

She was headteacher of St Kentigern’s School from 1996 to 2005 before it amalgamated with Trinity School to become St Herbert’s.

Mrs Miller, who is originally from Buckinghamshire, started her teaching career in 1973.

She has been a Carlisle United fan since the early 1990s and was presented with a team shirt signed by the players.

Mrs Miller said: “I am absolutely amazed that everyone has gone to so much effort. I first started following football because my son Jonathan followed it.

“I will take with me so many happy memories of the school. The children are just magnificent and I have had a brilliant staffing team who have been so supportive over the years.

“Even though I have retired I will still be doing some consultancy and inspection work.

“I also hope to spend more time with my granddaughter, travelling and doing all the Wainwright walks again.”

Anne Downie, school business manager, said: “Sara has been a superb head and very supportive to other members of staff.

“She has run the school excellently and has been a great role model for staff and students.”

Deputy headteacher Ian Jackson will act as headteacher until new head Sheila Hughes starts her role early next year.

First published at 19:20, Thursday, 22 December 2011
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk