AN 'inspirational' midwife has retired after working for the trust that runs the borough's hospitals for 48 years.

Friends and colleagues across Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust gathered to wish Helen Collins a happy retirement at a farewell party at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary on Tuesday.

She has worked at the hospital for 17 years, starting its Birth Afterthoughts Debrief Service which gives women and their families a private space and to discuss their labour and delivery when things did not go as planned.

Helen has also worked for other hospitals run by the trust and attended the Queen’s Garden Party in 2008 to celebrate her then 40 years of service to the NHS.

Diane Swindlehurst, head of midwifery at the trust, said: “I would like to thank Helen for all of her dedicated and compassionate work during her incredible 48 years at our trust.

“Midwifery can be a challenging but enjoyable profession and her passion for the job has shone through throughout her time here.

“She is an inspiration to others and a great example to follow.”

Helen, from Bolton, said: “I would like to say thank you to my friends and colleagues for their support over the years and to give them all a pat on the back for empowering women to make choices in their care.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my career and have very mixed emotions about retirement.”