Margaret Stermey, who has worked in Daventry since May 2007 as project manager for the disability equality scheme and a equality and diversity specialist, was treated to a special retirement reception and presentation at the hospital in London Road on Tuesday afternoon.

Mrs Stermey’s career began when she trained as an occupational therapist and got her first job at St Mary’s Hospital in Kettering. Over the years she changed jobs and moved to different hospitals around the country before coming back to Northamptonshire in 2006.

Mrs Stermey will now be studying to teach foreign people English and hopes to enjoy her retirement doing DIY, gardening and spending time with her family.

She said: “Danetre Hospital is a very nice place to work and I have enjoyed working with a great team.

“I have enjoyed working with patients and colleagues over the years and have learned a great deal from them. Being involved with people with disabilities and working closely with them to achieve their goals has been a true privilege.”