A CLEANER has hung up her mop and bucket after 44 years cleaning floors at a Hereford school.

Margaret James went for an interview at The Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School in July, 1966, but did not hold out much hope.

“I didn’t think I would get it as there were 11 of us waiting so I was one of the lucky ones,” said Mrs James.

“I have always loved working for the school, but I think that it’s about time that I gave it up.”

The 73-year-old has worked under four headteachers.

Her children, Anita, Gaynor and Malcolm, and grandchildren Stephen, Robert, Carla and Ryan have also all studied at Bishops at one time or another.

Headteacher Sara Catlow- Hawkins said Mrs James had been a valued member of staff for so many years.