A SCHOOL teacher from High Wycombe was among the stalwart public service workers with over 200 years under their belt among them honoured by Buckinghamshire County Council yesterday.

Chairman Zahir Mohammed presented Service to Buckinghamshire certificates to staff who had completed at least 25 years with the County Council.

They were joined by 58 staff who were recognised for successful work projects and achieving professional qualifications.

Paying tribute, Cllr Zahir said: “Service is the biggest thing our staff give to the council, and it's right that we recognise long service and dedication at gatherings to celebrate successes.”

Long servers included: Steve Essam (25yrs), who oversees highway schemes funded by developers; Jennifer Rouse (30yrs), caretaker at Marsh Gibbon CE School; Anthony Sifleet (27yrs), site manager, and Audrey Terry (25yrs), teacher, from Elangeni School, Amersham;

Avril Stone (25yrs), learning support assistant, from Oakridge School, High Wycombe; school crossing patrollers Irene Warne (Elmhurst, Aylesbury) and Janice Worger (Stoke Mandeville) both 25 yrs;

Finally, land charges officer Catherine Whilden, who has 41 years local government service, of which 25 have been with Buckinghamshire County Council.