A NURSE'S retirement has ended a family's century-long association with mental healthcare.

Staff nurse Liz Bowmaker has decided to call it a day at Redcar's Stead Memorial Hospital.

Both she and husband, Ken, used to work at St Luke's Hospital, in Middlesbrough, as well as Ken's father, uncle and aunt, Alice Cass, who first forged the family link in 1902.

The family even has their own chapter in a book, called A Century of Care, a History of St Luke's.

After 28 years' service in the NHS, Mrs Bowmaker said she will miss all the friends she has made, but is looking forward to her retirement.

She said: "There was a group of us that came to Stead from St Luke's and we have stayed together ever since. In that time we have formed strong bonds with each other and I will definitely miss them.

"I'm particularly looking forward to travelling more. My son will be moving to South Africa so we will get the chance to visit him, and hopefully go on more cruises."

Carmel Rutter, an acting sister, said: "I personally will miss Liz as she has not just been a colleague but a true friend.

"I wish her a long and happy retirement along with all the patients, carers and staff of St Christopher ward."