THE queen of tombola' is retiring from St John the Baptist School in Hampton Wick after teaching there for 17 years.

Sally Maxwell started at the school as a full time teacher who specialised in maths but taught everything and played an active role in the chess club. Her role gradually changed over the years and she now multi tasks, with her main role being librarian.

Her fond love of books obviously shines through as she is in charge of children's reading records and helping the pupils to choose books. On top of this, Mrs Maxwell is a welfare assistant, looks after the lunch time duties and is very active in parent/teacher dealings.

The married grandmother of two was hailed as the queen of tombola' by the deputy headteacher for her massive input in these events. The school is known for its good quality tombolas all because of the librarian, who sets them all up for the library and school fayres.

This probably explains her love of car boot sales where she picks up bits and pieces all the time.

Mrs Maxwell, who conveniently lives opposite the school, is retiring slightly early to help look after her two grandchildren whilst her daughter embarks on a career as a GP - she will be sadly missed.

Gwen Moat, deputy headteacher, said: "We will never be able to replace her, she is irreplaceable in my eyes."