After 26 years in the NHS, Liz Thomas can recommend it as a place to find an interesting job.

After leaving school Liz worked and trained as a hairdresser but marriage and family life brought about a career change and she joined the central sterile supply department at St. Peter’s Hospital.  As well as clerical work her job involved packing instruments and delivering them to the maternity unit.

After 10 years she had a one year break and worked for the Chief Vet at the Central Veterinary Laboratories, New Haw, at the time when BSE broke out. On returning to St. Peter’s Liz joined the administration team in the Rowley Bristow Orthopaedic Unit, where she has worked as a medical records clerk and receptionist.

Said Liz: “It’s been very satisfying to see patients over the years, and to see people getting better.  I love the work, it’s interesting and varied and if I was starting out again I think I would find it a place to have a good career.  We’ve got a great team in the Rowley Bristow Unit and I know I will miss them.”

Liz, of New Haw, appreciated the support of her colleagues while she cared for her late husband, Keith, and a very elderly aunt.  Now, during her retirement, she is looking forward to having time to garden, travel, and to visit her scientist daughter, Carole, in Hertfordshire.

At her farewell party she thanked everyone for her gift of a cut glass bowl and matching vase, flowers and a gold and garnet pendant necklace - and for their friendship over the years.