MRS STELLA BULLIMORE, the verger and caretaker at St Mary's Church in Watford town centre, will retire on Monday after 20 years of dedicated service.
From practical tasks such as keeping the church clean and flower arranging to offering vital support to those in need, the 60-year-old has worked tirelessly almost every day since she took on the combined role in 1983.
During her time in the job she has worked with three different vicars and welcomed thousands of people to the church.
Current vicar Rev John Aldis said: "She's been the verger and caretaker of this church for more than 20 years and has known many, many people in that time.
"She has looked after the church and made it available to people. She has a lovely way of welcoming people."
Mrs Bullimore's 60th birthday celebrations at the church last Sunday doubled as a farewell do. She was accorded a rare honour with a special peal of bells from the church tower.
More than 200 people attended the party, including many former parishioners who had returned specially for the occasion.
May 1, 2003 16:30
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