TWO teachers who have been side by side since they were children have been nominated for Teacher of the Year in the York Community Pride awards.

Janet Taylor is the senior teacher and Janet Pringle is the assistant headteacher at Poppleton Ousebank Primary School in Upper Poppleton.

The pair, both 62, grew up and went to school together in Heddon and Withernsea, even attending the same Brownies group, and years later started work at Poppleton Ousebank within a year of each other in the early 1990s. Now they are due to retire together after more than two decades of teaching.

They were nominated for the award by the school’s headteacher, Estelle O’Hara, who dubbed them significant leaders at the school and praised their glorious careers.

“Both teachers were absolute rocks when the school was judged to be outstanding in 2013”, she said.

“When parents were informed of their departure there was a gasp and total disbelief that such an important chapter for the school was coming to an end.”

Mrs O’Hara called Janet and Janet respected professionals who are “dedicated, passionate, organised and inspirational”.

Janet Taylor's specialism is art, and she was the driving force behind the school's part in the world record bunting bid in York early last year. She's also played an important role in promoting anti bullying week at the school, and has overseen PSHCE lessons for all the children.

Meanwhile, Janet Pringle's passion for drama has made a huge impression on her pupils. Every year she has written her own Christmas play, putting a "Poppleton twist" on popular stories and making sure every child in Year 2 has the chance to take part.

Colleagues say she will be well remembered by hundreds of pupils for her performances as Winnie the Witch, and as a terrifying Victorian teacher who visits the school to teach children about education in years gone by.

And as well as their contributions to teaching, both women have been stalwarts of the summer fair taking up a regular pitch running the ice cream van and the bar.

The Community Pride awards are run by The Press with City of York Council, and sponsored by Benenden Health. The Teacher of the Year award is sponsored by Drax, and recognises those remarkable professionals who inspire through their enthusiasm and commitment.

To make a nomination write to Paula Homer, PA to the editor, The Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN before Friday, July 18, with details including a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each nomination. You may also include a picture, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.

Nominations can be made at thepress.co.uk/pride