A YORK school dinner lady, who did much more than just serve lunches, is to retire after more than 25 years in the job.

Heather Winters, of Naburn Primary School, helped children with sewing, went on trips, worked with children on art projects and arranged flowers at the school.

But after 27 years she decided to hang up her apron, and retired at the end of term.

Head teacher Rupert Griffiths said: "She is a very kind and generous sort of person.

"One of the great things about her is that she has done a large amount for the school as well as being a midday supervisor."

Heather was presented with gifts at an assembly, where children sang a song written specially for the occasion.

Updated: 09:55 Saturday, December 20, 2003