A Surprise Party!

Philip attended to the residents needs at breakfast time as usual then prepared himself for his weekly visit to the cash and carry.  As soon as he left the building everyone went into action putting up banners, blowing up balloons, preparing  the buffet and chilling the bubbly!  At twelve o’clock the residents began to assemble in the lounge and the guests started to arrive.  Amongst the guests were staff members past and present, past residents, Hewlett Court Committee members and officers from the ELMC.

Philip returned at around 12.30pm he was completely stunned to see everyone.  It was a very moving and emotional day.  Philip stated that he has been extremely happy over the past thirty two years and was paid to do a job that he loved.  He will miss the residents and staff very much but stated that he is  delighted to hear that Mrs Julie Ward of the ELMC and his Deputy of many years, Mrs Margaret Beetson, are to be managing Hewlett Court after his retirement. Philip said that he knows both ladies well and truly believes that the future of Hewlett Court could not be in better hands. He wishes to congratulate them both on their new positions.  Philip added that he would have like the changes to be made during his time at the home.

The Chairman of the ELMC WBro Paul Rose presented Philip with a gift from the ELMC; a canon camera and case.  He expressed his great admiration of this long standing servant of Hewlett Court whose input had always been way in excess of his duties.  A man respected by his work colleagues and the residents, and who will be sorely missed.  Philip’s wife Anne was also presented with some flowers.

John Cook, who has been a resident of Hewlett Court for sixteen years, spoke on behalf of the residents passed and present.  He expressed his gratitude to Philip for the care and attention he has shown to the residents over the year’s.  It was a very emotional exchange of words and many of the residents were in tears.

At the last Hewlett Court Management Committee Meeting the Chairman, Alan Smith, took the opportunity to offer the committee’s sincere thanks to Phillip for his selfless professionalism during the time Alan has led this new committee and for all the help and invaluable experience Phillip had been able to pass on.  He wished him a long, safe and healthy retirement in Spain.  He will not be forgotten by his friends on the staff and also the residents who have all spoken with united praise about Philip.  A lovely man, a gentleman, and a very devoted servant of Hewlett Court.

Julie Ward will be taking over operational management from Philip following his retirement