Jeweller Guy Wakeling makes special necklace to mark Penwortham Priory Academy assistant's 21 years of service
Penwortham Priory Academy's Janice Simpson was bowled over by her long service award – a necklace made in the design of a ‘Gentry’ bowler hat.
Learning Support Assistant Mrs Simpson chose the design which was made by former Priory pupil Guy Wakeling.
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Mrs Simpson has been at Priory since September 2002 – and has now amassed 21 years.
“I am a Preston North End fan and because of the gentry connection, I decided on a necklace with a bowler hat”, she said.
“I knew Guy’s dad Peter when he was a boxing coach and he was a bespoke jeweller. Guy has carried it on, even though Guy wasn’t at Priory when I was here.
“I have a number of pieces from them and the necklace is beautiful.”
Nursing background
Mrs Simpson added: “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 10 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.”