This is the heartwarming moment a veteran school janitor could not hold back his tears as pupils cheered him on his last day after 31 years on the job.

For over three decades, dedicated Waldemar Wohlgemuth had handled every busted loo, broken desk, and piece of graffiti his students could throw at him.

But in an extraordinary show of affection, everyone turned out as they lined the paths for a standing ovation at the Albert-Einstein-Gymnasium in Frankenthal, Germany.

Footage shows Waldemar, clearly overcome with emotion, doing his best to choke back tears as he walks through lines of applauding youngsters on December 6.

Many wave DIY posters and pom-poms as they eagerly offer fist bumps and high fives.

Finally, he passes through a finishing line and is hugged by teachers and colleagues as the clip ends.

Teacher Annette Klein, responsible for the school newspaper, said: 'Our janitor deserved a special and moving farewell.

'He was there for the pupils and the school from early in the morning until the evening, and sometimes longer, for 31 years.

'His extraordinary dedication and warm personality make him a very special person who will be missed at the school.

'It was a matter of course and an honour for us to make his last day at school unforgettable. And our students learned about appreciation and gratitude.'