‘My life is South End’ – Rushden school dinner lady of 48 years celebrates 80th birthday

Marlene has been at the school in Rushden for 48 years, and on Friday Marlene was joined by the whole school to celebrate her 80th birthday with gifts, a tiara and songs.

The school’s assembly served as a celebration for one of the school’s most beloved staff members, who said the day was ‘fantastic.’

Marlene said: “It has been absolutely fantastic. I didn’t know anything about this until this week.

The children are amazing. It’s things they tell you, you get so used to them and their personalities. I wouldn’t have done anything else.

“They help me as much as I help them. This gives me a purpose. I watch them grow up, it’s lovely to think that they still know me.

“You really don’t know what’s around the corner, but I couldn’t think of doing anything else.

“My life is South End.”

Marlene, who is originally from Bedworth in Warwickshire but came to Rushden when she was 16, began as a lollipop lady on the A6, and in the decades that followed has seen generations of families come through the doors of the Wymington Road school.

Lunchtime activity co-ordinator Matt Whiting said: “She’s absolutely amazing, she’s kind, loving, and caring. She’s one of my best friends, she’s incredible.”

Higher level teaching assistant Ruth Bland has worked with Ruth for more than 20 years.

She said: “She’s amazing. She’s a happy, smiley person, she’s just brings out the best in them.

“She always makes sure that as teachers we are aware of problems. The fact that she’s been here as long as she has, she’s always smiling.”