Ruth retires this year after teaching at Mount Stewart for 34 years - during which time she’s acquired “expertise and sensitivity”, says head Anne Leach, who has nominated her for . our flowers, champagne and chocolates. As well as her official roles, she is the school’s piano player and, says Anne, “a supportive and valued colleague and friend for the 12 yeas that I have been at the school”. Ruth also taught both Anne’s daughters, now aged 17 and 20. “She inspires the trust that I shall always be able to call on her, even when she is enjoying her well-earned retirement,” says Anne.

Please send the name of your Friday Hero - and why he or she should get our goodies - to Sarah Bayliss, Friday magazine, Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W 1BX, or email sarah.bayliss@tes.co.uk. Flowers kindly supplied by Marks amp; Spencer