A NURSE from Fordingbridge celebrated her retirement after 33 years at Allenbrook Care Home.

Sue Cox, 70, celebrated her retirement on Friday, May 17 at a surprise garden party, surrounded by friends, family and residents of the care home.

She began her nursing career 52 years ago, in 1972, training in Bury St Edmunds. There, she met lifelong best friend, Marilyn “Fred” Oldfield.

Fred described her friend: “She’s one of the kindest, most patient people I have ever met.”

To Sue’s surprise, Fred, who had said she was on holiday, arrived at the party to join the celebrations.

Salisbury Journal: Pictured (left to right): Sue Cox, Marilyn Oldfield and Roger Cox

Sue’s retirement party took place in the garden of the home, with a singer, buffet, and drinks.

Her husband, Roger, gave a speech to open the party.

He said: “It’s not very often that when you’re young, you know what want to do in life. But from a young age, all she wanted to do in life was look after people. She worked hard to get the necessary qualifications as a nurse.

“She is just the most wonderful nurse you could ever wish to meet, and a wonderful mother and grandmother. She is the most amazing lady.”

Salisbury Journal: Sue was surprised by friends, family and residents

Sue said: “I have loved working at Allenbrook, there could not have been a better place to work. I have always felt so happy and met the most amazing, lovely people.

“I have had such a great time, I am really sad to go today.”

One of Allenbrook care home’s three owners, Chris Bialan, said: “She’s one of the most down to earth, beautiful souls you could ever meet.

“She is the heart and soul of this place.”

Sue joined Allenbrook Care Home in September, 1991, as the palliative care nurse.

She took on many roles during her time there, even filling in as a manager. In 2012, she was invited to a prestigious awards ceremony, where she was presented with an award for “biggest contribution to care in Hampshire.”

Salisbury Journal: Sue Cox on her last day at Allenbrook Care Home

Before her 33 years as a nurse in Fordingbridge, Sue had worked for the RAF, and was posted across the UK.

She met Roger, and joined him when he moved to work in Germany. She took a job as a nurse assistant, despite speaking no German, and persevered until she was able to understand the medical terminology.

In 1981, they moved back to the UK where she had three children, and took ten years off from work before continuing her career at Allenbrook.

As Sue came to greet all those who had joined her for her last shift, Roger said: “It’s about time you had some attention!”