STAFF at Derwent Hall, Darwen, sprung a surprise presentation on their centre manager on her final day before retirement.

Doreen Hicken, 57, decided to take early retirement after 14 years working at the centre and looking after the elderly people who spent their time there.

When she started as a temporary member of staff, it was meant to be for just 11 hours, but nine years later she became centre manager working five days a week.

Her colleagues showed their appreciation for her commitment by organising a party, which was attended by the centre users and staff, as well as the surprise presentation of cards and gifts.

The mother-of-two and grandmother-of-eight received a flower arrangement and gold necklace from the centre's management, as well as numerous gifts, cards and a collection of £95 from people who visited the centre, and friends.

Chairman of the old people's welfare committee Dorothy Webster said: "She has been very good during her time here. They are all elderly people who come here and she has always been friendly with them.

"In a lot of cases when they have had problems she has been a comfort to them and they have felt able to talk to her. She came to us on a temporary basis, rising to centre manager. She will be sadly missed."

Mrs Hicken said: "I was gobsmacked by the turnout and by the amount of cards and presents. My husband retired a month ago so it will be nice to go walking now that I'll have the time.

"I have a son in Cheshire and a daughter in Liverpool so I'll have more time to go and see them, as well as my seven grandsons and one granddaughter. Also, my daughter gets married in the summer.

"This was a lovely way to end my time at Derwent Hall and it is nice to know I am so well thought of."