A DOCTOR who accidentally applied for a job in Leigh has retired.

Morris Doublet-Stewart, a GP at Grasmere Surgery in Leigh, thought he was applying for a job in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex in 1985 until the day before his interview when he realised it was actually in Lancashire.

But the 60-year-old has since made the town his home and even served as the doctor for the Centurions for 20 years.

He said: “I was working in a hospital in the South of England and I was thinking about a possible career in general practice.

“I was reading a medical journal and saw an advert for a trainee job in Leigh so I though why not give it a go.

“The day before the interview I thought I should find out where I was going – I thought I was going to Leigh-on-Sea in Essex so it was quite a big surprise when I realised it was Leigh in Lancashire.

“It was a shock but we have been very happy here.”

Dr Doublet-Stewart, of Old Hall Mill Lane, suggested to his wife Christine, who is French, that they retire to her home country but she declined.

“She said she likes Leigh too much,” said Dr Doublet-Stewart.

“She is a governor at Leigh Junior School and chairs Wigan and Leigh’s twinning with Angers. She is very busy so says I can stay home and do the cooking and cleaning.

“I am very moved by the response of my patients, I have had at least 100 cards and presents.

“I would like to express my gratitude to my patients and staff.

“I have been incredibly lucky with the staff I have worked with, the nurses, the practice manager and the receptionists. I could never have done it without their help.

“They are very good people to work with.”