Mrs Simpson's Long Service Award Takes Her Back To Former Pupil

Mrs Simpson was bowled over by her long service award – as it was a necklace made in the design of a bowler hat!

Learning Support Assistant Mrs Simpson chose the design which was made by former Priory pupil Guy Wakeling. 

Mrs Simpson has been at Priory since September 2002 – 21 years. 

“I am a Preston North End fan and because of the gentry connection, I decided on a necklace with a bowler hat. I go to every home game and will treat myself to a half season ticket at Christmas!

“I knew Guy’s dad Peter when he was a boxing coach and he was a bespoke jeweller. Guy has carried it on.

"Guy wasn’t at Priory when I was here but obviously I knew of him and it's nice to have the Priory connection.

“I have a number of pieces from them and the necklace is beautiful.” 

Mrs Simpson admitted: “I was a nurse before I came to Priory and I didn’t expect to be here over 20 years but I have really enjoyed it. 

“I live in Longton so I cycle to work every day in all weathers, it’s four miles there and back so it keeps me fit. 

“Priory has changed such a lot building-wise with the old B Block demolished and all the new buildings which have been introduced over the last ten years especially. 

“I have been a Learning Support Assistant and a Cover Supervisor here and I guess my role has evolved as I have been here. 

“I have enjoyed every single minute of it. Helping children has been a complete joy to me.” 

Guy Wakeling is a bespoke jewellery designer, based in Longton, with over 25 years’ experience of making unique pieces of handmade jewellery.   Visit him at 91 Liverpool Road, Penwortham, PR1 0QB or go to www.guywakelingjewellery.co.uk