A nursery leader who has shaped hundreds of children's lives over two decades has waved an emotional goodbye to the role.

For the past 20 years, Nicky Wardale has spent her time caring for pre-school children at the Ducklings Playgroup in Hethersett, which is part of the Woodside Infant and Nursery School.

But the hard-working caregiver has decided now is the right time to step back - with plans to get involved with voluntary work.

Mrs Wardale, who was given a poignant book of memories and tea towel decorated by the youngsters, said: 'I feel that I have done a really good job over 20 years and that the group is in a very good place.

'I have an intense feeling of pride and satisfaction and believe the time is right for somebody else to take over.

'I will miss the children and the lovely sense of satisfaction when they trust you and also watching them develop as they mature.

'Yes, there will be tears but I feel it is time to move on.'

Under her leadership, the nursery was boosted to an 'outstanding' rating by Ofsted inspectors.

She was also chosen to carry the London 2012 Olympic Torch in Cromer in recognition of her impact on the community.

Caroline Spatchett, chair of governors at the playgroup, said that Mrs Wardale would be missed.

'We will miss everything about Nicky – her enthusiasm, the way she teaches the children, the way they learn from her and above all the fact that the children love her,' she said.

The keen runner is now looking to undertake some form of voluntary work and plans to 'chase her dreams' - which she said may include a ranch holiday.

Ducklings, which was founded in 1967, is aimed at children from two-and-a-half to five years old and meets for three hours on weekdays.

There is also an activity group for children aged 21 months to two-and-a-half years that meets in the afternoon. All the groups meet in the grounds of Woodside Infants and Nursery School.

Do you have a Hethersett story for us? Contact Hethersett reporter lauren.cope@archant.co.uk