MARY Young, the long serving secretary and friend of 'Mr Lydney' Melville Watts, has taken early retirement from the Watts Group.

Mary's early retirement from the Althorpe House-based group will be a loss to both Watts and the Friends of Lydney Hospital, with which she has long been associated.

Mary told the Review: "My husband's job has been relocated to Clevedon, so sadly I am taking early retirement in time for our move away from the Forest.

"It's strange that this should have happened now, rather than 12-18 months ago, as I would not have wished to leave 'Mr Melville' – indeed I would rather have commuted every day.

"It is of course with great regret that I now leave behind so many friends and colleagues at Watts Group and in the Forest of Dean. I would like to say a big 'thank you' for all the support I have received from so many people over many years.

"I leave the 'Friends' in good hands of course, headed, since the loss of Melville Watts in August 2010 at the age of 87, by Anthony Midgley and a strong and dedicated team."

Mary also said she had been very happy during her years with Watts Group as secretary to Mr Melville Watts and thanked the company for allowing her to help with the administration of the Friends of Lydney Hospital whilst also fulfilling her formal role.

"Though technically retiring, I may just see if the League of Friends of Clevedon Hospital would like an extra pair of hands.

"Thank you Lydney and the Watts Group and all of you Foresters for your help over the years – please continue to support the Friends of Lydney Hospital."

During her last few days in the office Mary was visited by many members of the community including Matron Mandy Hampton and members of her team from the Hospital.

Tony Midgley, chair of the Friends, presented her with a painting entitled 'Up the Straits'. Mary also received a special gift from Rupert Bathurst – a limited edition print of his painting of Melville Watts.

The Friends of Lydney Hospital say they would like to thank Mary Young very much for all her help over the years, and wish her luck and happiness in her future retirement.