The longest serving member of staff at West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds was honoured with a surprise party to mark 40 years’ service.
Clive Burroughs, a technician in construction and crafts, who is based at the college’s Milburn campus, has seen much change during his long career in education.
Staff and students, both past and present, came together to throw a special party to recognise his outstanding contribution to the college.
Mr Burroughs said: “I was really shocked when I walked into the party, it was nice to see people I used to work with make the effort to come and celebrate with me.
“Since I have been here I have seen buildings be knocked down and completely rebuilt, it’s always changing and growing.
“You see so many different people and it’s nice to have so many people to speak to. Since I have been here I have seen many students come and leave to move on to their next adventure.”
Sharon Gibson, personal support tutor based at the Milburn campus, said: “Clive is a person who can be relied on, he is part of a team and he stands out from others as a role model.
“He enriches both staff and students lives and remains enthusiastic and cheerful in the face of adversity every day.”
Debbie Coomes, executive director for healthcare, sports and technology, said: “To be in a job for over 40 years in 2018 is just amazing – most people within their ‘career lifetime’ will change their job at least 6 times.
“Clive is inspirational and loyal with a capital L and a key character at the very heart of West Suffolk College.”
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