The longest-serving carer at Leadon Bank old people's home retired on Wednesday, with a surprise party and memories stretching back over 30 years.

Anne Cobb saw the present Leadon Bank being built three decades ago and her departure comes shortly before its demolition and rebuilding.

Mrs Cobb had no inkling that a celebration was in store for her. Party poppers went off and balloons were burst over her head, sending down showers of glitter.

As Mrs Cobb, 63, was presented with flowers and Champagne, she said: "We've been one happy family here, and may it continue. It's just been fun.

"I don't want to see Leadon Bank pulled down. I'll be very sad, but I'll still be popping in to say hello."

When Mrs Cobb started work at the home, it was based at the former workhouse buildings nearby.

Mrs Cobb has been asked to open the Leadon Bank fete as the VIP on Saturday, July 22, at 2pm, which will be the last public event at the present old people's home, just before work starts on the new building. When the new building is finished, the old one will be knocked down and a car park will be built where it stood.