Presents for retiring teachers :both ladies

What about hampers of Fair Trade food and drink? You could choose the size and the contents yourselves and if there is anything they con't like/can't eat, they can give it away to someone else without any awkwardness.

Book tokens. Oh the bliss of retirement and a good book without wondering if you really should spend that much.....

Something for the garden if they are gardeners.

If they are Gardeners, a small rose bush in a pretty planter. I gave these to two colleagues who retired at the same time and whenever I meet them (6 years on) they both comment on how well the roses are doing.

Generally when teachers leave, at least at the shool my husband taught at, they have a plan for a cruise or a trip somewhere, so books on the subject, guide books, phrase books, maps, etc., are often chosen.

However, if no one has asked them if they have any existing hobbies or plans for such trips, you can't fault the ideas above, such as book tokens and plants.

Thank you for your suggestions.We like them all and will ponder them carefully.We particularly liked the rose bush idea but as DH is going on the bus,it may not be possible???

It may be boring but how about a John Lewis or Debenhams voucher? Not necessarily these particular shops.

Failing that, I think a Swarovski pen might be a nice idea. Everybody uses pens and they are very attractive. You can get a gift receipt and, if they really don't like, it they can return the pens quietly! This is what I buy various friends for their 50th or 60th birthdays. No complaints so far!

I always think of a Rose bush as a memorial maybe just me

Bottles are always appreciated Greenfinch
My sister, an ex teacher, managed to stock her drinks cupboard this way.
A good bottle of wine or spirits,presented in a pretty bottle bag.Believe me, all teachers drink! ?

Garden vouchers may be the answer, there are two kinds you need to check that you select the ones accepted in most garden centres. They can use them at their leisure then!