We said a very fond farewell to long-serving,  midwife Ruth Hirst  (pictured in pink uniform) who's retired after 38 years.

Her send-off in the Parentcraft Room at CRH included a personalised a fairytale version of her career starting Once Upon a Time....

Paula McMahon, said: " Ruth is a very lovely, friendly person, someone who would always go the extra mile."

Carol Gregson has worked with Ruth for  more than 20 years - starting out on a job share after maternity leave -  and they are firm friends.

Carol says: " I can honestly say that Ruth has never wavered in the high standards she adopts when caring for women and their families. She has always gone above and beyond what is expected to ensure that safety and a high level of care is being delivered and has empowered many women in encouraging them to make decisions about their maternity care and the choices they have."

Ruth worked part time since having her family to be able to dedicate quality time to not only her children but so that she could continue in a profession she has been immensely proud of.

Carol and Ruth worked in the Purple Team which covered the Colne Valley for 15 years seeing many changes to maternity care during that time with Ruth rising to the challenge each and every time, putting the woman first. It really has been a vocation for her.

Carol added: " I personally will be really sorry to see the profession lose Ruth but believe that she deserves to retire in order to spend quality time with her family and to be able to enjoy the company of her many friends."

We wish Ruth and all her family the very best.