Midwife retires after 37 years

Miss Catherine Nearey (55), who lives in Ightenhill, was joined by more than 70 colleagues and friends at Rosehill House Hotel to mark the milestone.

She began her career in Blackburn as a student nurse in 1973 before becoming a staff nurse at the former Park Lee Hospital. She qualified as a midwife in 1979 and was based at Burnley General Hospital for 32 years.

More recently Sister Nearey was a member of Shuttleworth Team and for many years was a community midwife in Padiham.

She plans to holiday in Cyprus with friends before settling into retirement and said she will miss her job.

“I’m sure I’ll miss it. It just feels like being on holiday at the moment. It will be different after working full-time all these years.”

And despite carrying out a host of different duties over the years Miss Nearey, who is a keen gardener and enjoys travelling and walking, said she enjoyed all aspects of her job.

“I liked it all. When it’s good it’s very good. Ante-natal care is all good.”

As a sign of her dedication to her career, colleagues and patients, Miss Nearey was presented with jewellery, cards, vouchers, and mother and child ornaments by fellow staff.

“It’s just been incredible, and quite exciting.

“I would like to thank my colleagues for celebrating my retirement,” she added.