School's out for retiring Moray janitor

TODAY is the last day at school for a Moray janitor after decades of service.

Eoin McKenzie, who turns 70 later this month, has clocked up 39 years of service, having joined the authority in 1980. He became the janitor at Rothes and Mortlach primary schools in 2004 and, before that, was a caretaker at Elgin High School.

Yesterday Rothes pupils and parents gathered for an assembly to give Eoin a fond farewell. He was presented with a Rothes tartan scarf, Rothes tea towel and vouchers, by pupil Isla Laing, on behalf of all those who contributed to his collection.

Rothes Primary Head Teacher, Faith Sargeant, said Eoin will be sorely missed.

“I’d like to thank Eoin for being a fantastic member of the team. There’s a real sense of community at the school and everyone is a valued part of it, and Eoin has gone above and beyond so many times.

“He has done so much for us, and he always has a smile on his face. All of the boys and girls, staff and families value the contribution he has made.”

Eoin, who has seen generations of families come and go at the schools during his time, said he is looking forward to having more spare time for hobbies.

“I have got a lot of things I can do; I’d like to get back into fishing and photography. I’ve got lots of grandchildren, so I’ll enjoy more time with them as well.

“But first, we’re off on a Mediterranean cruise, I always said it would be something we’d do when I retire!”

Famous for its colony of dolphins, fabulous beaches and more malt whisky distilleries than any where else in Scotland, Moray is a thriving area and a great place to live. Nestling between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands, Moray stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Brodie Castle in the west.