|
Monday 29th March 2004 |
115/2004 |
Photographers & reporters are invited to join Withington Grange warden Alice Martin at the presentation of her long service certificate at the sheltered accommodation on Withington Lane, Top Lock at 11am on Monday April 5th.
Looking out for other people has been a life’s work for devoted carer Alice Martin.
But now, after nearly 30 years dedication to those who need her help, it’s time for the 64-year-old to sign off and say a tearful goodbye to life as warden of Withington Grange sheltered housing project.
Mother and grandma Alice has been a lifeline for hundreds of older people at the sheltered accommodation in Aspull since she became the warden in 1981. She began her career as a home help worker with the council in 1975 but a desire to take the caring aspect of the job further led her to the warden post.
Alice’s role has been a varied one. For many of the residents she is a welcome sight as she speaks to them all each day. Her job has entailed everything from the routine, such as making sure everywhere is clean, through to organising social events — such as coffee mornings, bingo and trips out for the residents.
Over the years Alice has also played an important role in testing and monitoring vital equipment such as personal alarms and smoke detectors.
Alice, who now hopes to spend more time with her family, will go out with a bang by throwing a special party for all the residents. She said:
“I have enjoyed every minute of my time here at Withington Grange. I have met some lovely people, including the residents, their relatives and the staff at Wigan Area Housing Office. I am very sorry to be leaving but am really looking forward to retirement.”
Before she leaves, Alice will be presented with a special long-service certificate by the chief executive of Wigan and Leigh Housing, Peter Gee.
Mr Gee praised the dedication of unsung heroes such as Alice. He said:
“It takes a special type of person to devote their working life to looking after other people and it is a tremendous achievement for Alice to have been involved with this line of work for nearly 30 years.
“She has been an excellent warden who has been always there to help out the residents in any way she can.
“It will not only be the residents of Withington Grange but everyone involved with Wigan and Leigh Housing will miss her. We wish Alice all the very best in her retirement.”
-ends-