Nora takes her leave after 33 years at Rathmoyle

And at a function in the Rathmoyle Nursing Home in Ballycastle where Nora, a Senior Care Assistant, has spent most of her working, staff and residents bade a fond farewell to someone who was roundly praised for her contribution down the years.

Nora was joined by her husband, George, daughter, Leona, and son, Declan, as well as her extended family to hear Head of Unit, Mrs. Mairead Donnelly review her working life and suggest that she will be missed by all.

Mrs. Donnelly said that Nora began employment with the old Coleraine and Portrush Hospital authority after training as a pupil nurse and qualifying in October 1970.

She subsequently worked at the Route and Coleraine hospitals before joining Rathmoyle on February 1, 1979.

Some thirty three years later, Nora has taken early retirement and plans to put her feet up for a while before contemplating future plans.

Mrs. Donnelly described Nora as a woman who was very proud of her family. She also had a passionate interest in sport, bowling for Loughgiel as well as playing a leading role in Armoy GAC Club.

“That’s why we have coloured the cake blue in acknowledgement of the colours of the Armoy club,” Mrs. Donnelly joked.

Nora is also a committed Manchester United fan and is a member of Moyle Sports Advisory Committee.

Mrs. Donnelly added: “Nora has seen six Heads of Units come and go here and many other changes down the years. She has also been responsible for inducting new staff on night duty and staff and residents are thankful for the service she has given.”

In response, Nora said she had thoroughly enjoyed her time at Rathmoyle caring for the elderly. She admitted that she had seen many changes over the years, but said that the old structures had now returned.

“Whatever happens in the future I wish everyone well. I also wish you all a happy Christmas,” she said.