THE headteacher of a Nailsea junior school was swept off his feet during a week-long celebration of his retirement.

Bob Bailey, aged 60, is putting his feet up after 20 years at the helm at Grove Junior School.

Pupils and staff sprung a few surprises on their unsuspecting leader in the run-up to the Easter holiday.

Vintage cars, including an Austin 7 and a Daimler, were used to chauffeur him to and from the Whiteoak Way school, children showered him with gifts and cards during a farewell assembly, and a concert, featuring pupils past and present, was performed in his honour.

The highlight of his special week was a tethered hot air balloon flight, which enabled him to take aerial photos of the site as a memento.

School spokesman Jackie Butterworth said: “Mr Bailey enjoyed it immensely, and so did the children who all cheered and waved as he made his ascent.

“He loved surveying what was his domain. He has had a very emotional week.”

The photos, along with farewell messages can be viewed by logging onto the school website www.grovejuniorschool.co.uk