A much-loved receptionist has said goodbye to an emergency department after 35 years.

Lesley Ward bid farewell to the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust on Wednesday.

Lesley had planned to leave last year, but delayed her retirement to support her team throughout the pandemic.

She began her journey in 1987 as a member of the reception and fracture clinic team.

After 35 years of service, the former receptionist at Maidstone Hospital now plans to use her retirement to spend more time with her family, especially her young grandchildren.

She said: "Thirty-five years. What can I say? It has been the people I have worked with over the years that has made my time at the Trust so enjoyable.

"I have met and made friends for life and as a team we have faced challenging times and the good times together. I’ve always said, find a job you love and you’ll never feel like you’re at work."

Tim Hubbard, from the emergency department, said: "Lesley is known by colleagues for her warm and kind nature and is a much loved member of the ED team.

"Throughout her years of service at the Trust, Lesley has worked tirelessly, going above and beyond, to ensure the department runs smoothly and delivers excellent patient care.

"Lesley will be sorely missed by each and every member of the ED team and we wish her a very happy retirement."