Chairman bows out at Linn PS after 54 years

Warm tributes have been paid to a Larne man’s enthusiastic and dedicated service to Linn Primary School, spanning 54 years.
Gladys Henderson is presented with a gift by Linn PS principal Andrea Duff.  INLT 10-236-AM  linn psGladys Henderson is presented with a gift by Linn PS principal Andrea Duff.  INLT 10-236-AM  linn ps
Gladys Henderson is presented with a gift by Linn PS principal Andrea Duff. INLT 10-236-AM linn ps

Arthur Henderson is retiring as chairman of the board of governors at the school and in recognition of his outstanding contribution, a recent special occasion at the school provided the ideal opportunity for a double celebration.

The school’s new £500,000 extension includes a new IT suite, aptly named ‘The Henderson Suite’ in his honour.

Mr Henderson was a founding member of the management committee that established the school in 1960. He became involved as a representative of Craigyhill Presbyterian Church. He took over as chairman in March 1978.

In June 2006, Mr Henderson was awarded an MBE for his services to education and the community.

Linn Primary School principal, Mrs Andrea Duff said: “The school has only had three principals during its 53 years of existence and Mr Henderson has not only appointed but he has worked alongside each of us. Crawford Adair, George Hewitt and I are all extremely indebted to his wisdom and guidance during our time leading the school.

“It is difficult to put into words just how much his support will be missed in Linn Primary School. We are all incredibly grateful for the dedicated commitment Mr Henderson has shown to our school and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.”

Mr Henderson said that the presentation had come as a surprise.

He explained that Linn Primary had been established at a time when the locality was developing with young families moving into the Craigyhill area.

“It was absolutely essential to have a school. It opened with approximately 200 pupils,” he said.

“Any school is a very important part of the community. The school is now very well-established in the community. The numbers are remaining steady. There is a great team of teachers and it can only go from strength to strength.”

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