A WARDEN who has been looking after elderly people for more than three decades is set to take a well-earned rest.

Residents at the Bridleway sheltered accommodation complex, Burnley Road East, Waterfoot, have said a sad farewell to Norma Gooding, who has been described as "an inspiration".

Norma will not be going far after kind-hearted bosses allowed the hard-working mother of two to carry on living on at the complex with her husband ,Geoff.

Peter Johnson, housing administration manager, paid tribute to Norma's dedication over the years after she clocked off for the last time yesterday afternoon.

He said: "Norma is a very kind person. She used to work as a home help before she came here, so has a long history of working with elderly people.

"She has a really good rapport with the elderly and has organised many events for people living here and worked beyond her call of duty.

"Norma is one of these people who will do anything for anyone, she's an inspiration, a genuinely really nice person who will be greatly missed by all the residents and all the staff."

Norma, 61, spent 19 years as a home help before starting work in Waterfoot.

She said: "Even though I will really miss working with the people here, both myself and Geoff are ready for a rest and want to spend time going on holiday and just taking life easy.

"It is great that I have been allowed to stop on site and carry on living in the house. I have been overwhelmed by everybody's generosity."