A long serving nurse from Blackpool is finally hanging up her uniform after a staggering 51 years.
Norma Greenall, 72, from Bispham, is looking forward to a celebratory Caribbean cruise as a little bit of luxury in her retirement.
Former Montgomery High student Norma qualified in 1969 at the Blackpool School of Nursing which was based at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, applying for training when working for Woolworth’s.
Norma said: “Once I qualified, I worked at Devonshire Road Hospital in infection diseases department on the skin ward then on the TB wards. I remember the patients sneaking out to go to the pub there.”
Norma took five years out while she had her daughters Helen and Karen, returning to Ward 15 on the Bench, where she later secured a permanent, part-time position.
It was while on a break in the staff room shared with the Gastroenterology staff that Norma heard of a position covering maternity and in 1986 started work in Gastro where she has stayed ever since.
Norma said: “The staff were so friendly and welcoming and still are. I have made lifelong friends here.”
At 60, Norma retired and returned but now feels the time has come to fully retire.
She said: “It’s going to be strange after all these years but I feel the time is right. I’ll still catch up with the team here and I will certainly miss the company, but retiring will allow me to spend more time with my grandchildren.
“I will also miss the patients. I’ve always enjoyed chatting to them and being able to help. I’ve enjoyed working with everyone and it’s been a pleasure. Thanks for all the support over the years.”
Norma (bottom, centre) and colleagues in her early days of nursing
Director of Nursing, AHPs and Quality, Pete Murphy, said: “We would like to thank Norma for all her years of service both to the Trust and the nursing profession.
“We wish her a long and happy retirement and hopes she enjoys the additional time with her family. Thank you Norma on behalf of all the BTH family.”