FORGET the old bucket and mop image - super-caretaker Terry Parfitt has brought a whole new dimension to the job of janitor.

The mild-mannered grandfather of four doesn't just take care of the buildings at Victoria Village Primary school in Abersychan.

He's added staff and pupil IT training, web design, youth work, and art and design to his job description.

The head and staff decided it was time he got a bit of recognition for all his work and unpaid extra hours.

They nominated "shy and retiring" Mr Parfitt, of Price Close, Trevethin, for a Times Educational Supplement Friday hero award - and he won.

The recipient of the weekly award receives champagne, chocolates and flowers and a report in the TES.

Head teacher Joy Dando said:"He's not one to blow his own trumpet - that's why other people have to blow it for him."

"I've never met anyone who deserves a bit of recognition more. Terry is one of the most committed individuals I have ever come across - nothing is too much trouble."

Mr Parfitt's good deeds include designing and building a website for the school, teaching the 209 pupils and 13 staff IT skills, and coming in during weekends to put together art murals made by the children, and creating wood carvings and garden features.

"At Christmas time he came in on his day off and decorated the whole school - it looked like Santa's grotto," said Mrs Dando.

The multi-talented former Royal Ordnance worker, is loathe to make a big deal out of his contribution to the school.

"I just enjoy my job and that's it," said the 58-year-old, who has worked there for six years. "It was a bit of a shock when I found out I was going to be interviewed about it," he said.

Mr Parfitt was in data management at Glascoed's Royal Ordnance factory before he was made redundant.

He said: "I fancied a complete change. I've done youth work in Trevethin for more than 20 years, so I decided to go for something which incorporated that.