THERE was not a dry eye in the house when a popular care home manager said goodbye to her team and residents at the end of her 50-year career in care.

Starting her career training to be nurse at the age of just 15, Margaret Hook has hung up her uniform for the last time, retiring at 66.

Margaret has been the home manager at Sanctuary Care’s Brambles Residential Care Home in Redditch since 2005 and leaves behind a lasting legacy.

After more than a decade of loyal service, Margaret’s family, colleagues and the home’s residents recently gathered together to toast a fond farewell to the much-loved home manager.

One team member said: “Margaret has always been a fantastic boss and has always been there for all of her staff, I cannot thank her enough for all of the support she has given me during my time here." Another said: “It’s a sad day for Brambles, Margaret will leave big shoes to fill.”

Deputy manager of the Birchfield Road home, Sally Knight added: “Margaret will be sadly missed but she will never be forgotten, having touched so many hearts - always putting her heart and soul into Brambles.”

In addition to the care and compassion Margaret has shown to the home’s residents and team, she has also mentored many other home managers.

Sue Milward, home manager at Sanctuary Care’s Hastings Residential Care Home in Malvern said: “Margaret has supported many home managers over the years and her most inspiring strength is her dedication to her team and the residents in her care.”

Margaret, speaking about her retirement said: “I am looking forward to doing my gardening and going on holiday.

"I’ll now also be able to spend more time with my dear mum, Winifred who lives close by – I’m not sure she thinks I am ready to retire just yet and I will feel a great sense of loss, but I am very much looking forward to the future.”