Warden Helen says goodbye

THE long-serving warden of a sheltered housing scheme has retired after more than a decade of service.

Helen Scott was first appointed to her post at Thistleyfield, Milnrow 12 years ago and has now retired.

Resident Maureen Parr said: “Helen has been great in her job And a good help to everyone.

“She visited residents every day and it’s a big scheme so she really did do a fantastic job.

“She used to organise the Christmas parties every year without fail and we always had a coffee morning every Tuesday.

“We didn’t tend to do trips as some people here are quite elderly, but she was a real lifeline for us all.

“She will be very sadly missed - there’s a lot of work to do in a big scheme like this, but she was really good in her role and we will miss her.”

Helen used to live onsite but now lives in Littleborough.

Maureen added: “The residents threw a party for her including a meal, music and games of bingo.

“We had a singer who came and performed for us and we all had a singalong - everyone who came had a really good time and enjoyed themselves.”

Helen now plans to visit her son in America – and was given the equivalent of £200 as a leaving present - roughly $324, to fund her trip.

Thistleyfield itself is run by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and comprises 53 one-bedroom flats and bungalows.

It also has management staff as well as visiting staff and a community alarm service.

A new warden is currently being appointed and is expected to be in post in the next few weeks.