If a picture speaks a thousand words then the retiring secretary of St Michael’s Primary School in Helston was presented with a speech from the children.

Every class at the school made cards for Olivia Blake, who left at the end of term after 40 years in post.

Flowers were a particular theme, from giant sunflowers through to mounted ‘bouquets’ made from coloured circles containing individual messages.

Year six went a step further and drew a portrait of Mrs Blake. As reported last week, the cards were among a series of surprises to mark the retirement of Mrs Blake, who also received a celebration cake, was serenaded by staff and had the honour of the newly refurbished school library being named after her.