A school bid farewell to its long-serving headteacher with a special train-themed leaving party.

Eastern Daily Press: Alan Williams is retiring from his headteacher role at Glebeland Primary School. The school held a train themed party to celebrate. Picture: Nick ButcherAlan Williams is retiring from his headteacher role at Glebeland Primary School. The school held a train themed party to celebrate. Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant © 2017)

Alan Williams, of Glebeland Community Primary School, on Beccles Road, in Toft Monks, celebrated his retirement on Friday, July 14.

A spokesman for the school said: 'When Alan took over as headteacher in April 2002 the school had been through a turbulent time.

'We needed a strong leader to guide us through calmer waters and that is just what we got.'

He added: 'Alan's patience, understanding and dedication has seen the school go from strength to strength and he leaves the school in a very strong position for the future.'

Eastern Daily Press: Alan Williams is retiring from his headteacher role at Glebeland Primary School. The school held a train themed party to celebrate. Picture: Nick ButcherAlan Williams is retiring from his headteacher role at Glebeland Primary School. The school held a train themed party to celebrate. Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant © 2017)

The surprise train-themed farewell party was held in recognition of Mr Williams enjoyment of train travel. There were train related games, a cake, party food and even a visit from an ice cream van.

The spokesman added: 'To start him off on his journey into retirement the children presented him with a voucher for afternoon tea for two on the Orient Express' sister train- the Belmond Northern Star.'

Mr Williams was said to be amazed that the children had been able to keep the party a secret for so long.

He said: 'I had no idea - there has been so much preparation going on behind the scenes but the children never let it slip.

'The voucher was a lovely idea and my wife and I will thoroughly enjoy our luxury afternoon tea.'

Under Mr Williams' guidance, the school became a founding member of the Consortium Multi Academy trust.

The trust's fundamental aim is to maintain and enhance the position of rural community primary schools at the heart of communities across Suffolk and Norfolk. They ensure the close integration and collaboration necessary to ensure smaller schools remain vibrant and visible.

Clare Williams, who will take over headteacher duties from the retiring Mr Williams, said: 'We are so grateful for everything Alan has done for the school over the past 15 years and he will be greatly missed.'

• Is your school holding a special event? Email the details to james.carr@archant.co.uk or call 01502 525832.