SCHOOL pupils at Hazlehurst Primary have waved a fond farewell to their headteacher, who organised his own "dramatic" send-off.

Stuart Birtwell is retiring this summer after 11 years at the helm of the school in Geoffrey Street, Ramsbottom.

He was previously headteacher of Summerseat Methodist Primary School, and has clocked up a total of 38 years in teaching As a regular member of the Summerseat Players amateur dramatics society, Mr Birtwell organised his own send-off at Ramsbottom's Theatre Royal.

He hosted an Evening of Music and Mirth, raising £1,390 for Bury Hospice.

The event featured a cocktail reception and a concert by the Square Street Singers as well as speeches and solo performances.

The 200 guests included former director of education Harold Williams, who presented Mr Birtwell with a long service award and a 1930's Wedgewood bowl.

Mr Birtwell (59) said: "It was a wonderful way to leave. I have to thank everyone who helped raise money for the hospice, and everyone who offered kind words.

"Of course I am going to miss the school but I am also looking forward to retirement and spending more time with my wife."

Mr Birtwell said he would spend his retirement pursuing his hobbies of gardening and fell walking, and planned to make a trip to North America with friend and former Hazlehurst governor Alan Rogers.

The former headteacher will continue serving as a magistrate and performing on stage with the Summerseat Players.