'I'm upset to leave but it's time!': Cleaner at Walsall hospital retires after almost 36 years

Dawn Hammerton, aged 66, hung up her apron for good on Friday (January 10).

The mum-of-four began her career at the hospital in February, 1989, following the birth of her second child.

She started out working on on the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and then spent 33 years on the Neonatal Unit before moving to the Paediatric Assessment Unit.

Mrs Hammerton battled breast cancer and sepsis during her time working at the hospital - but returned to work as soon as she could.

She said: "I love my job and I’m so upset to leave, but it’s time now. I’m sorry to go but if I don’t leave now, I don’t think I ever will.

"I’ve seen babies born who have now had babies of their own. I remember looking after a policeman’s daughter and she had been run over in an traffic accident.

“Years later I was around to see that lady had children of her own - it was lovely to see."

Mrs Hammerton, who is from Bloxwich in Walsall, worked through the Covid pandemic and completed full-time shifts right up until her retirement.

She added: “I’ve made some really good friends as well as colleagues and I’ll continue to pop and see them. I’ve enjoyed every minute.”

Mrs Hammerton started her working life at aged 15 at Greatrex Mason leather factory in Walsall, making jewellery cases as a leather preparer, before becoming a lockmaker with Josiah Parkes in Willenhall.

Now, she plans to spend time with her four grandchildren and husband of 47 years, who is also set to retire after a long career working in a warehouse.

The pair plan on taking more trips to Wales, where they like to visit and see family. 

Sue Lewis, who was Mrs Hammerton's supervisor for more than a decade and is now retired, said: "Dawn has always shown compassion, empathy and kindness. 

"She has always been honest, reliable and kind to everyone she came into contact with.”