THE manager of a  care home who has spent nearly 20 years at its helm said a fond farewell this week as she announced her retirement.

Staff and residents at Staveley House Care Home, in Greystone Lane, Dalton, bid farewell to their manager, Jan Howson, who is retiring after 18 years at the home.

Mrs Howson, of Barrow, said that as soon as she set foot in the home applying for a job, she was confident that it was where she wanted to enhance her career.

She 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 present of a camera from her colleagues, and she plans to take some time away on holiday following her retirement.

She added: "I will be going away to Louisiana week after next, and I have other trips I'll be looking to plan. I am hoping to visit Devon and also Scotland."

The chairman of the Abbeyfield Furness Extra Care Society, David Stewart, says that Mrs Howson's hard work that benefits residents and staff has underpinned the success of her and the home.

Mr 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."