A COOK who has dished up school dinners, has hung up her apron for the final time after 30 years in the kitchen.

Grandmother-of-five Cheryl Jenkins – cook-in-charge at Gwaun y Nant and Oak Field primary schools in Gibbonsdown, Barry, prepared her final meals today. (March 21)

The 62-year-old, of Barry, bid farewell to pupils and staff and thanked everyone who had supported her in her time at the former Gibbonsdown infants and juniors-turned primary; now Welsh and English medium schools on the same site.

Pupils at both schools took turns to celebrate her efforts since 1983.

Cheryl, whose own personal favourite dinners are the meatball or sausage dishes, said dinners had changed over the years. Meals now revolve around appetite for life legislation

She said: “We used to do just dinners at one time and then they introduced packed lunches. It’s healthier now. There’s no salt.

“It’s sad to leave, but it will be good to go – I’ll de-clutter my house.

“They have all been lovely over the years and I just want to thank everyone for being so kind.”

10-year-old Amy Buckler echoed her fellow pupils’ thoughts on Cheryl’s meals.

“They are unforgettable,” she said. “They are amazing and I am going to miss her. The meatballs are my favourite.”

Gwaun y Nant headteacher, Rhydian Lloyd added: “She’s a fantastic cook. She’s helped me put the pounds on!”