A handyman whose many skills have kept a primary school running successfully for 40 years has been honoured by staff and students.

Jim Partlo, 74, has been the property manager or caretaker at Richard De Clare School, in Parsonage Street, Halstead, since 1978.

Governors, staff and students at the school paid tribute to Mr Partlo’s dedication at a special assembly - where he was presented with several gifts including a unique ruby beret he can wear on special occasions.

Mr Partlo said: “I love the school. For me the best thing about the job is seeing the changes in the environment which I have been involved with.

“My job makes it possible for the teaching and support staff to do their jobs.

“If I do not open the doors in the morning nobody gets in.”

Mr Partlo was born in Canada, but grew up in Arizona in the US, where he moved later with his family.

As a member of the American air force in the 60s he was stationed in Spain where he developed a lifelong love for travelling across Europe.

He moved to the UK in 1968 and soon began working in schools - but didn’t fall in love with his profession until he was given the job at Richard De Clare.

“Halstead reminded me of Tucson, where I lived in the US,” he said.

“From my first visit when I looked around I loved the school, the building particularly.

“I do everything necessary to keep the school running and keep things safe for the pupils and staff.”

In his 40 years Mr Partlo, who is a keen photographer, has seen the education system change significantly, and the school grow by around a third in size.

“We have got at least two members of school staff here that came to school as children and I was here then,” he said. “Over the years I have seen quite a lot of people come through and grow up. The nature of teaching has changed a lot too.”

Mr Partlo has lived on site for his 40 years, but he says he hopes to be there much longer still.

“I cannot see myself ever retiring, I think I will die still working at the school,” he added.

Headteacher Sarah Donnelly said: “His dedication to the efficient running of our premises is outstanding.

“He is a real character in the school community and is held in high esteem by children, parents and staff.

“We are so thankful to him - every school should have a Jim.”