THE manager of a care home who spent almost two decades at its helm said a fond goodbye as she began her retirement.

Staff and residents at Abbeyfield's Staveley House Care Home, in Greystone Lane, Dalton, bid farewell to their manager Jan Howson, who retired after 18 years at the home on April 27.

Mrs Howson, of Barrow, said: "From the day I walked in to bring a job application back, it felt like home and it has always been the same.

"It has been nice to come somewhere with a stable environment. It's light and airy place to work, where every resident is well cared for and it has just felt right."

Mrs Howson joined the care home in 1997 as a relief care worker, and since then has worked her way up to become house manager, a post which she has held for seven years, and was also assistant manager for two years before that period.

There was a presentation at the home for Mrs Howson, with staff and residents enjoying refreshments. 

Jan also received a camera as a gift from her colleagues, and she plans to take some time away on holiday following her retirement.

The chairman of the Abbeyfield Furness Extra Care Society, David Stewart, said: "Jan's commitment to the welfare of the residents of Staveley House has been a major factor in developing the home's reputation for high quality care in a safe and happy environment.

"We wish her a long and happy retirement."