A popular Tyneside teacher is calling home time on a career that has spanned generations.

Carole Eke, 60, has taught in Newcastle schools for nearly 40 years.

For the past 29 years, she has been at Archibald First School, Gosforth, where she takes the Year Four class and is deputy headteacher.

Carole, who lives in Kingston Park, said: "Many of my former pupils are now grown up with children of their own, and I have taught them as well.

"Of course I'll miss the children, but I often bump into them, which is nice."

One of Carole's main loves has been music and she has put on a number of successful shows.

But she missed out on teaching Archibald's most famous old boy - Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler.

She said: "Sadly, he was before my time, which sounds funny when you think of how long I've been here."

Headteacher Jackie Joicey said: "Carole is a very talented pianist who puts on fantastic pantomimes which she writes herself.

"We'll really miss her inspiration."

Jane Thorpe, 45, from Gosforth, is chairman of the parent-teacher association and a mother of six, including Ellen, 13, and Sian, 10.

Both girls have enjoyed being in Carole's classes. Jane said: "Carole always goes that extra mile, and sees the school almost as a family.

"She's sold PTA raffle tickets and spun the tombola at school fairs for years.

"Carole once starred in a hilarious performance of Grease. She has a great sense of humour."

Carole, who is also the school's special needs co-ordinator, is known for always giving extra time to pupils in need of help.

As retirement beckons, Carole hopes to travel, learn about computers, and cook for herself and furniture-maker husband Ray.

The school plans to see Carole out in style, with more than 80 past and present colleagues set to wish her well.

Carole's farewell to the children will include the hiring of a bouncy castle for a fun afternoon.