FOUR West Devon headteachers were praised for their long service in Devon, at a county council celebratory event.

The four were joined by 15 other headteachers from across Devon at the celebration of almost 400 years of service to children, held by the county's school chiefs.

Leader of Devon County Council John Hart, cabinet member for schools Andrea Davis, chief executive Phil Norrey and head of education and learning Sue Clarke hosted the celebration for heads who left their schools during the current academic year after a lifetime of service.

Most were retiring but some were going on to work in other areas.

Peter Jones from Milton Abbot Primary School gave more than 28 years of service, Ann Mitchell from Lamerton Primary left after 27 years of teaching in the county, Jane Rivans from Winkleigh Primary gave 26 years of service and Susan Blair from Meavy Primary gave 24 years of service in Devon schools.

They were all invited to a special buffet supper in Exeter to mark their careers.

Mr Hart said to them at the event: 'Devon has a lot to be proud of — particularly in its education service.

'My sincere thanks go to you all on behalf of Devon County Council and the children of Devon for all the work you have done.'

He said he wished those who were retiring a long and happy retirement and every success to those who were moving on to new ventures.

Dr Norrey thanked the heads on behalf of the thousands of children who had passed through their care over the years.

He said: 'It is heads and teachers in schools who make a difference and you can look back with pride on a job well done.'