THREE teachers who have clocked up a century of experience retire this week.

Two of the teachers from Branksome School started work together on the same day in 1972 - with the third starting the year before.

Anne Poynton, Diane Jones, both assistant headteachers, and Derek McCann have seen the school drastically change since they started.

Mrs Jones said: "It was a much bigger school then, with more than 70 teachers and 1,200 pupils. I much prefer the small size now as I feel I know everyone."

As well as teaching food and textiles, Mrs Jones has been involved in the social side of the school.

Miss Poynton trained as a teacher at Darlington College of Education and was assigned to Branksome for teaching practice.

She said: "Originally I only intended to stay for a couple of years before moving on, but 34 years later I am still here, teaching the children - and probably the grandchildren - of former pupils."

Mr McCann, now head of design and technology, completed his teacher training in London.

Branksome was his second school when he joined the staff in 1971.

He said: "My intentions were to gain some experience, stay for probably two or three years and then to move on again.

"Branksome however offered many opportunities to staff as well as a brand new workshop."