A popular playgroup leader, celebrated her retirement with a teddy bears’ picnic in West Ewell on Friday.

Sheila Lemon, 67, has worked at Ruxley Church Nursery for 40 years but decided to retire as the church moves to a new building further down Ruxley Lane.

She said: "It’s very emotional. The nursery will carry on but it’s not going to be known as Sheila’s anymore."

Clare Lawrence, who is part of a family business called Tiny Little Tinkers, will reopen the playgroup as Ruxley Lane Pre School in September.

Sheila said following the teddy bears’ picnic for the children on Friday, her colleagues organised a surprise party in Ewell.

She said: "I sat in Toby Carvery with tears rolling down my face."

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She plans to keep childminding and run a coffee morning for mothers and babies at the church.

Bernadette, whose daughter went to the nursery, said: "Shelia runs a tight ship, the kids love her, her staff are brilliant.

"I think she has served community a huge amount by helping children and parents alike."

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The first service at the new church building took place on June 23.

For information on the new pre school call 020 8641 1077 or visit www.tinylittletinkers.co.uk.