IT was a double celebration for a long-serving member of staff at Lydney Hospital who retired on her 70th birthday.

Mary Howells was surrounded by staff who spared a little time from their busy workload to say farewell to the lead administrator for Forest Community Hospitals.

Having spent 38 years with the NHS, Mary has worked in an administration capacity for the last 20 years. Her role has included responsibility for the Dilke Memorial Hospital as well as Lydney and District Hospital.

Mary said: “Although I have loved working at both hospitals, I have a great deal of affection for Lydney.”

Mary started work at the Health Centre, graduating to become supervisor, and was later promoted to take responsibility for all hospital administration in the Forest of Dean.

On behalf of the Friends of Lydney Hospital, Chair Anthony Midgley presented Mary with a gift and a bouquet of flowers. He said that he appreciated the help that Mary had provided in liaising with the ‘Friends’ over many years.

A small tea party was held for her.