SHE'S hanging up her ladle after 32 years slaving over a hot stove - but Beryl Beckles intends to carry on making cakes even after retiring.

Mrs Beckles has been queen of the kitchen at the boys' boarding house in Kings' School, Winchester, ever since the house was built in 1967.

The school is unique in that it is one of the only state boarding schools in the South looking after many youngsters whose parents serve in the armed forces.

House parent Louise Davies said: "She is absolutely wonderful, and the boys adore her.

"Her cooking has been fantastic and she's got the energy of someone half her age."

Sadly Mrs Beckles, 68, who lives in Fox Lane, Stanmore, broke her wrist in August and has had to retire several months earlier than anticipated.

But with her wrist in plaster she was still able to reminisce about the boys' changing food tastes.

"Chips are very popular now, whereas in the old days it was steak and kidney pudding," said Mrs Beckles.

"I'm going to miss the boys, as they tend to keep you on your toes, but I've really enjoyed working here."

Now she is looking forward to having more time to visit two of her four grandchildren who live in Ireland, but she would also like to keep her hand in with cooking.

"I would like to carry on making cakes, but only for a few mornings a week. I've made the Christmas cake for the last 32 years at the boarding house so you never know I may be asked again."

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