A SPECIAL farewell gift has been created for a ‘wonderful’ headteacher who devoted her life to children.
Dedicated Janet Dallimore has led Yorston Lodge Preparatory School with drive and passion, greeting pupils with a smile at the gates, every day for the past 28 years.
The shock closure of the 120-year-old Knutsford school left staff, pupils and parents ‘deeply saddened’.
As the school shuts on Friday, parents have compiled a memory book to thank Mrs Dallimore for her unstinting care and commitment.
READ > Harry Styles fans flock to star's Cheshire home for free walking tour
Children and mums have collected personal messages to tell her how much they appreciate all her efforts.
Mum Charlotte Neary said: “Mrs Dallimore is the magic behind such a wonderful place.
“She has created a very special family.
“Every pupil knows one another and takes such care of each other no matter what.
“We will miss seeing this family every day but are so thankful that we were part of it.
“A huge thank you for the memories and friendships, something we will always treasure.”
Kindergarten mum Sarah Garcia De Bustos said: “She is a wonderful headteacher.
“Someone who takes the time to really get to know each child and is delighted when they succeed.
“She has a mind-boggling amount of wisdom and experience.
“Mrs Dallimore is Yorston and, although the building may be closing, the school will live on through students’ memories.”
Parents John and Caroline Sullivan said: “I am sure she sleeps at Yorston. She is first in and last out and there at weekends.
“Her dedication to the school, her staff and pupils has been second to none.
“She always said to pupils ‘never give in and always strive for more’.
“She always had time for everyone.
“We will miss Mrs Dallimore and it is very sad that the school is closing.
“The school has seen many generations of my family from my gran, mum, aunts, uncle, cousins, brother-in-law and our children.”
Former house captain Amy Harvey, nee Marshall, said: “Janet came as the reception teacher and a few years later it was wonderful to hear the news that she was made headmistress.
“She was nothing but perfect for the role. Her kind nature and passion to educate ensures us all Yorston was bound for a successful future.
“You only have to step through the gate to feel the warmth this special school still brings to its students and parents every day.”
Year 4 pupil Ariella Atherton said: “Come rain or shine, Mrs Dallimore has always been at the school gates in the morning to greet all the pupils.
“Her warm welcoming each day is something that everyone will miss.
“She is nice and caring in every way.
“There isn’t anything Mrs Dallimore can’t do.
"When she isn’t teaching or arranging the next school trips, she is busy on playground duty.
“Each Friday in assembly she awards trophies to the children who embody the values and spirits of Yorston.
“The true spirit of Yorston is Mrs Dallimore and we will all truly miss her.”
Dad Asif Mahmood said: “Janet has been a stalwart of Yorston and the community.
“She took it upon herself to know every child at the school.
“Losing Yorston and Mrs Dallimore is a big loss for Knutsford.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here