Angela Smith, Michaela Ward, Julie Sadler and Sue Pulham have all worked at the scheme for two decades.

Ipswich Star: Celebration for four team members at Peppercorn House supported housing scheme in Ipswich who have racked up 20 years' continuous service each. Left to right, Sue Pulham, Michaela Ward, Angela Smith and Julie Sadler. Picture: GREGG BROWNCelebration for four team members at Peppercorn House supported housing scheme in Ipswich who have racked up 20 years' continuous service each. Left to right, Sue Pulham, Michaela Ward, Angela Smith and Julie Sadler. Picture: GREGG BROWN

A surprise celebration morning was held at the house with friends and family of the staff being invited along to partake in the festivities.

Each of the carers were given a certificate and flowers to mark the years they have spent helping to care for others. Songs were sung and a special cake was baked for the occasion.

Mark Milton, CEO of Heritage Care who own Peppercorn House, was on hand to present the staff with their certificates.

Mr Milton said that despite having many long serving employees having four staff reach this milestone anniversary at once was something he had never come across before.

Ipswich Star: Celebration for four team members at Peppercorn House supported housing scheme in Ipswich who have racked up 20 years' continuous service each. Left to right, Sue Pulham, Michaela Ward, Angela Smith and Julie Sadler. Picture: GREGG BROWNCelebration for four team members at Peppercorn House supported housing scheme in Ipswich who have racked up 20 years' continuous service each. Left to right, Sue Pulham, Michaela Ward, Angela Smith and Julie Sadler. Picture: GREGG BROWN

“Keeping people for 20 years is not something that is done lightly.

“It’s a testament to the management for keeping people here.

“A few more are coming up to 20 years as well.”

Christine Glacken, manager at the site, said: “ We have a staff of 25 and now 1/5 of the staff have been here 20 years. There are also many others who have been her ten years plus.

“You become part of the family.”

One of those being recognised Julie Sadler said:“It’s been a really for all these years. It’s still enjoyable an I’m still enthusiastic.

“The staff are wonderful, we are a good team. We all help each other.

“Everyone is family.”

Angela Smith, who helps to organise activities at the scheme said: “It seems like only yesterday.

“ I have enjoyed every moment of it. Peppercorn is an amazing place to work. You feel part of a big family.”

Residents were also involved in the celebrations for the staff

Gladys, has lived at Peppercorn House for 22 years and has known the staff since they started.

“They are very good,” said Gladys, “ Michaela has been wonderful whilst I have been unwell.

“She will talk and explain things.”

Another resident Eric said: “Angela saw me the first time I came here and introduced me to everybody here.

“She made me feel very welcome.”