A MUCH-LOVED dinner lady has hung up her apron after serving generations of children.

Mum-of-two June Hockenhull worked as a kitchen assistant at Middlewich High School for 34 years.

Pupils and staff said they were sorry to see her go.

"I really enjoyed being with the children," said June, 64. "I do miss them. I think it kept me young seeing all the different years go through. I related with them all."

June's sons Gary, 46, and Michael, 44, were pupils at the school.

Gary's children Skye, 14, and Jayden, 13, are following in their dad's footsteps and now attend the King Edward Street secondary school.

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School meals have changed over the past three decades.

"In the old days, it was was chicken drummers followed by custard with chocolate crunch," said June. "The food has improved greatly and is much better and healthier. We do roast dinners and lasagne. Children can have toast in the morning and then bacon wraps, little pizzas or waffles for morning break."

For most of her career June was employed by the local authority. A private company Compass Group UK took over the catering two and a half years ago.

"They cut our hours so I took redundancy," said June. "I had a lovely rapport with the children, they all respected me. I had a bit of banter with them. It was like a family.

Head teacher Heidi Thurland, who presented June with a bouquet of flowers, said: "June has worked for the school community for 34 years, this is an incredible lifetime commitment. June has been a valued member of staff who will be greatly missed by the school community.

"Her ready smile, care for students, kindness, reliability and sense of humour has been integral in her success at Middlewich High School. We would like to wish June all the very best in her future endeavours and sincerely thank her for her commitment to our community."

June still works as a cleaner at Middlewich Primary School in Park Road every day, where she has also served 34 years.