It has perhaps been the worst kept secret in Coatbridge over the past month or so, but I am now in a position to officially announce that Mr Hughes retires today. Mr Hughes spoke to me several months ago and very firmly expressed his desire to slip away from St Bartholomew’s quietly and without any public announcement. Of course, this really came as no surprise: Mr Hughes is known for his quiet, unassuming personality and his habit of simply getting things done without any fuss or drama.

I have no doubt at all that a public announcement of Mr Hughes’ retirement prior to the end of term would have resulted in a huge surge of well-wishers turning up at the school. Over the past four decades, Mr Hughes has educated literally hundreds of Townhead children, many of whom are now parents (and even grandparents) of current pupils. He has been an absolute inspiration to those many individuals who have been privileged enough to pass through his class over the years and you would struggle to find a teacher more dedicated, hard-working and genuinely interested in the welfare of their pupils. Likewise, you would struggle to find a more loyal and supportive colleague. Mr Hughes is, quite simply, one in a million and St Bartholomew’s won’t be the same without him.

If I’d had my way, I would have thrown the biggest party possible for Mr Hughes and I know that people would have travelled from far and wide to express their heart-felt thanks to this remarkable man and wish him well in his retirement. However, I felt it was important to respect Mr Hughes’ wishes and give him the opportunity to round-off his teaching career in the way he wanted.

Earlier today, Mr Hughes was presented with a beautifully bound copy of the old school logbook which is displayed in our trophy cabinet. This is a book Mr Hughes has grown very fond of (he’s even mentioned by name in its pages!) and we hope that, in the months and years ahead, this gift will be a constant reminder to him of how much he was respected, admired and loved by the St Bartholomew’s community throughout the many years he taught in the school.

Mr Hughes, we really will miss you! However, our best wishes and our prayers for a VERY long and happy retirement go with you as you leave St Bartholomew’s today. You’re about to begin the longest summer holiday ever! You’ve earned it, Willie!!!

(Please remember that there is the facility to leave messages here on the blog. Tributes for Mr Hughes along with any special memories would be most welcome.)