A HARD-WORKING and dedicated caretaker of over 20 years has retired from his duties at Midland Road Nursery School this week and is ready for his free time.

Ophy Black retired on Friday, December 16, after making his mark helping the local community and impacting the lives of thousands of children. 

He has seen a lot of changes over the years, not least the major refurbishment of the Midland Road, in Manningham, to become a children’s centre in 2007 as well as its doubling in size.

After all his years of service to Midland Road, Ophy is now retiring to spend more time with his family and grandchildren as well as enjoying a trip back to Jamaica.

Ophy said: “I’ve been working at Midland Road 20 years and enjoyed working with staff and children over the years.

“I will be sad to leave but I want to travel and go back to Jamaica and I can also spend more time with my grandchildren.”

His dedication to Midland Road and the job has been highly appreciated by all those from senior staff to the children.

Headteacher Ginny Robinson said: "He is looking forward to his retirement, which will include spending time with his family and grandchildren and working on some projects he’ll now have more time for.

“We will miss his absolute dedication to his role and meticulous attention to detail.

“There is only one Ophy."

He cycled to school every day at 6am and cycled home again at 7pm- in all weathers.

Ophy took a lead role in the planting and gardening at Midland Road and has been asked to return to set up a gardening group for the families that attend.

Sara Earnshaw, business manager at Midland Road Nursery School, said: “Ophy has been a key member of Midland Road for 20 years.

“He always ensures that the school is clean and safe for staff and parents every day. 

“Ophy always ensured that everything was ready for us coming into school every day and always did this with the biggest smile and a laugh.

“He will be truly missed.”

Neelum Ali, a parent, said: “We will miss Ophy tremendously. 

“He always goes above and beyond what he needed to do.

“Always happy, kind and smiling. We will miss you.”

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