A LAB technician is finally hanging up his favourite white coat after 49 years at Brentwood School!

Peter Busch, 65, of Brentwood, was just 16 when he joined the school as a lab assistant in 1966, but is now bidding staff and pupils a fond farewell.

Speaking at a special assembly in Mr Busch’s honour, headteacher Ian Davies said: “Today, we say farewell to a man who has served this school selflessly for 49 years.

“Peter’s duties ranged from assisting the chemistry labs, and running up the High Street to place bets for the head of science and to purchase his snuff!

“In his early days he cut a very James Dean-like figure, arriving at school by motorbike inapuff of blue smoke, a bit similar to working in the chemistry labs.”

Mr Busch worked in chemistry and biology before moving to his favourite discipline of physics.

Mr Davies added: “He’s seen the science department expand in every direction teachers and pupils have really appreciated his input and expertise.

“He’s made hundreds of items of equipment and repaired thousands more and he knows how it all works.

“We wish youalong and happy retirement.”