Geraldine Debenham who is retiring after 35 years at West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds

A GRANDMOTHER is retiring after 35 years as part of the team at a hospital.

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Yesterday, staff and volunteers at West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds said a fond farewell to Geraldine Debenham, 64, who is voluntary services manager.

Mrs Debenham, a grandmother-of-four of Whitby Road in the town, joined the trust in 1977, initially working as an evening housekeeper before inputting patient records into the first hospital computer.

She became a personal secretary in 1982, after which her role quickly expanded to include work for voluntary services.

She was appointed voluntary services manager in 1990 and has since overseen changes such as manning the front reception using volunteers.

Mrs Debenham, who received an MBE in 2006 in recognition for her work, said: “I have absolutely loved my job and really enjoyed working with the hospital staff and our wonderful volunteers.

“I’ve met some really outstanding and selfless people.

“Throughout my time, the service has never stood still and has continued evolving to meet the changing needs of patients. We’ve always tried to use the volunteers effectively and appropriately so that they can complement the
services provided by our staff.”

Nichole Day, executive chief nurse with the trust, said: “We are extremely grateful for the huge contribution which Geraldine has made during her 35 years with the trust. Our voluntary services have grown and developed significantly under her leadership.”

Mrs Debenham is planning to spend more time with her family and is considering volunteering at a school. She will continue to support the Friends of West Suffolk Hospital.