On 30 October we did manage to get together to properly celebrate the service of 4 long standing members of Catholic Care staff who had left the charity over the past year, either for a well earned rest as they retired or to take on new challenges caring for others.

Mary Simmons, Sharon Costello, Aileen Donnelly and Val Lowe have between the m loyally served the Charity for 124 years in total.

Mgr Donal Lucey celebrated a beautiful Mass in the Chapel at Hinsley Hall and then we all enjoyed a hot buffet. This gave everyone the chance to catch up on news and events over the past year and above all the opportunity to say a proper farewell.

Carol Hill, Director of Catholic Care, presented each of the guests with a bouquet of flowers thanking them whole heartedly for their contribution to the Charity.

Bishop Marcus was amazed at the combined longevity of service and surprised us all be presenting Mary, Sharon, Aileen and Val (who sadly could not be present) with the Diocesan Silver Award for their many years service to the mission of the Church in the Diocese of Leeds.

What a lovely end to a quite remarkable afternoon.