Epilepsy Nurse Andrew Carr retired last week after 37 years in the NHS and with his sights set on his new venture - a Spanish retreat.

Andrew began his career at Fieldhead Hospital in Wakefield. His best friend's parents used to work there on the children's ward, so from the age of around 14 they'd go and play games with the kids, helping them keep busy and just generally having fun.

Andrew told CHFT Weekly "I absolutely love working with people - it's the thing that's kept me here for all this time.

"I've certainly seen many changes over the years but the time has come to move on. So I'll be spending a few months in Spain learning the lingo.

"I'm excited about the future, though must admit I'm also a little apprehensive. After all - I've got up and come to to work for 37 years and I don't have to do that anymore! Mind you, friends and colleagues tell me I'll certainly fill my days"

Neurology nurses secretary Clare Robinson, has worked with Andrew for seven years. She said: "Everyone at CRH knew Andrew.  He's a joker and doesn't hold back. He is the same with his patients and they really appreciated that. It is a difficult role with challenging patients, yet he loved it. He always went that extra mile for them. He will be missed...... and it will be quiet without him."

Chief Exec Owen Williams was specially invited and thanked Andrew for all his work over the years.

** Baffled at the wooden spoon?? It was a replacement pressie as his real one - a bust of Venus - didn't arrive on time, but will be presented to him at a farewell meal this Friday.