A PERSONAL carer from Cumnock has retired after working for the council for more than 25 years.

Mary McBryde, 66, celebrated with all her colleagues at the Royal Hotel on Thursday. They were joined by East Ayrshire Provost Jim Todd as they all wished Mary a happy retirement.

Caroline Galloway wanted to show her appreciation for all the hard work Mary has put in and organised the surprise tea.

She said: “The tea went fantastic. The Provost was there and Mary was totally surprised, she had no idea it was happening. All the girls got her a bunch of flowers. I just want to thank Mary for all her help throughout the years. She has been a great asset to the home care team and she will be sorely missed.”

On Friday, Mary visited our surgery at Cumnock Town Hall. She’s off on holiday next week but told us she enjoyed the surprise and was thankful to all who turned out.