Vic’s on his bike after 35 years at primary
Sad farewell...Vic Barnett premises officer for Foxton Primary school for the past 35 years during his last day at school. (Mail Picture: Andrew Carpenter/MHMP 001604-57)
A CARETAKER who was at the heart of village life for more than 35 years has retired.
Vic Barnett has left Foxton Primary School following a career spanning just over 40 years which began at Lubenham Primary in 1971. But the 67-year-old is showing no signs of slowing down.
One of the stars of the World Masters cycling scene, Mr Barnett said he is planning to take part in races in Italy and South Africa over the next year.
He secured his second World Masters Cyclo-cross title in America in January last year.
Mr Barnett said he joined Foxton in 1976, when it was far smaller than it is now.
His first day at the school was almost scuppered by extremely heavy snowfall which blocked roads in the area, but Mr Barnett battled through in typical style.
His memories of working at the school include the need for pupils from the nearby Gartree estate to be escorted home by security officers during the mid-1980s, when the prison held IRA prisoners.
He also remembered witnessing the infamous helicopter escape from the prison in December 1987.
“The staff have been fantastic over the years,” he told the Mail.
“It has always been a stready ship, with not much staff turnover, which is nice.
“It’s just a fantastic place to be.”
Pupils gave Mr Barnett a scrapbook full of pictures, photos and memories of the school during a Christmas lunch held before the end of the last term.
Mr Barnett, who lives in Lubenham with his wife Ann, said: “I really didn’t expect anything like that, but it was nice of the governors, staff and children to think of me like that.”
Headteacher Phil Clarke said: “I don’t think anybody is more deserving than Vic. He was dedicated in his work and has always been here to open up come snow or hail.
“Everyone at the school wishes him a happy retirement.”
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Weather for Market Harborough
Friday 24 May 2013
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