DOCTORS' surgery staff say farewell tomorrow to a woman who has been a friend to thousands of patients over 35 years.

Heather Cruddas is retiring from the practice at Stanhope in Weardale, where she has served as receptionist, secretary and, more recently, as manager.

She joined the surgery in 1965 after working as a secretary for the National Farmers Union and the Consett Iron Company.

Then there was only the husband and wife team of doctors Donald and Betty Thomson working at one tiny surgery.

Today's practice has a team of five doctors and one trainee, and 17 nursing and clerical staff, working at three surgeries at Stanhope, Wolsingham and St John's Chapel.

Mrs Cruddas, a widow, who lives at Eastgate, said: "When I first joined the practice I never thought it would grow so much as it has over the years. But although there is a lot more paperwork to deal with, it's much better organised."

Mrs Cruddas plans to enjoy her retirement with "a few more holidays" and spending more time with her only grandchild.