A cleaner who has retired after 40 years’ service at Walsall Manor Hospital says it was a “pleasure to come to work”.

Tina Smyth, Support Services Assistant on the Neonatal Unit, saw thousands of babies born in her four decades at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust.

She was also Support Services Supervisor for several years before the COVID-19 pandemic, heading up a team of cleaners before retiring and returning.

Her career started as a lockmaker in Willenhall before she became a seamstress, sewing men’s suits at Stanner’s factory in Walsall town centre, prior to joining Walsall Healthcare in 1984.

She still clocked on at 7.30am every weekday morning for her shift, while she used to work one weekend day as well.

Reflecting on her long career at the Trust, Tina said: “I’ve always worked on Maternity and Neonatal and it was a pleasure to come to work, talk to people and make new friends.

“I’ve unblocked a few toilets and Hoovers in my time – you didn’t bother calling Estates to help out in those days!

“I’ve made quite a few friends over the years but they are all dwindling away – some have already retired and some will be retiring soon.”

Calling time brought mixed feelings to Tina, who finished work on Friday, 31 January, two days before her 66th birthday.

“I think it’s time to hand my mop and bucket over to someone else,” she said.

“Your body tells you when it’s time. It’s still the same work, but it’s very demanding and it’s time for the younger ones to have a go.”

Reflecting on the changes that have taken place over the last four decades, Tina said: “My first boss was Madeline Spruce then Julie Watton-Butler and you respected them and they respected you.

“You could have a laugh and a joke with Julie but Mrs Spruce was one of the old sort – firm but fair.

“She would let you know if you had done wrong, but in the office on your own.

“It’s nice to see all the new buildings now but there used to be lovely gardens which were beautiful to look at, with three or four gardeners tending to them.”

Jenny Done, Support Services Supervisor, said: “Tina keeps the Neonatal Unit clean and tidy and she will be missed by all staff.”

Tina plans to kick off her retirement by booking a few holidays, as well as spending more time with family and friends and “finding some hobbies”.