More farewells as this week we also wish a happy retirement to two long-standing colleagues.

On Wednesday we'll bid a fond farewell to Medical Secretary, Jo Holt, as she retires after more than 35 years in Dermatology. She celebrated with her colleagues last week who have all been eager to share their well wishes with her before she leaves.

Medical Secretary, Tegan Joseph, said: "Jo has been at the heart of the department for many years, and her contribution goes far beyond her role. She has been a constant source of support, knowledge, and calm in what is often a very busy environment. Her dedication, reliability, and positive spirit have made a lasting impact not only on the service we provide but, on the people she has worked alongside every day.

"Jo will be greatly missed, both personally and professionally. However, it is wonderful to know that she now moves on to a well-earned retirement, with more time to enjoy with her family and grandchildren."

Locum Consultant, Dr Zhuxiang Nie, said: "Jo has been working in dermatology for more than 35 years (still very young!) and working with me since I joined the team in 2014, more than 11 years now. I've enjoyed all these years working with her, she is always very helpful and amiable, always with a pleasant smile on her face. She is a friend, to me, and to the whole department."

Medical Secretary, Sam Gill, said: "Suffice it to say, the last 15 plus years working with Jo have been an honour and a blast and I'll miss her so much, as we all will! Jo IS Dermatology and the department really won't be the same without her. Long may our friendship continue after 35 years on the clock so far!"

Library Manager, Helen Curtis, is also retiring after 32 years.

Medical Education Manager, Becky Colwill, has worked with Helen for the past 23 years. She said: "After 32 years at CHFT, I can’t believe the time has come and you are retiring! Helen, you have been the heart and soul of our Library and the last of the originals, it goes without saying that you will be truly missed – I wish you all the very best and a wonderful retirement – you have lots to look forward too! Thank you, Helen, for everything”

Librarian, Madeline Hannah, said: "The Library won't be the same without Helen. She has always gone above and beyond to support colleagues to access evidence, succeed with academic study and get involved in research. On a personal note, I couldn't have asked for a better manager than Helen. She has been a tremendous source of encouragement, guidance and mentorship, and although we'll no longer be colleagues, I know we'll always be friends."

Consultant, Andy Lockey, added: "Helen has been a phenomenal support to my academic work over many years - her skills as an information specialist have contributed to several high impact systematic reviews that have changed international practice. All done with calm and kind efficiency. She is an actual legend, and I hope she has an amazing well-deserved retirement."

Former Locala Occupational Therapist, Jan Spencer, spent a lot of time in the Library. She told us: "Helen has supported the Community Neurological Therapy team with an inordinate number of searches on subjects which are out of the general norm. The way that this has enhanced client outcomes is extraordinary and we are so grateful for her joyful and professional support over the years. I will personally miss her kind humanity and her quick-witted humour."