Anne Gray has dedicated 40 years of her life to helping people with learning disabilities, enabling them to live as much of a normal life as possible and encouraging them to be part of the community and enjoy their daily lives.

Former staff who have worked alongside Anne, as well as current staff, residents and their families, and members of the Smallbrook ‘Knit and Natter’ group, organised a surprise retirement party for Anne at Smallbrook Gardens on Wednesday, June 27th, 2018.

Anne was successfully surprised and was presented with Queen Anne Roses at the party. Some of the guests said they were so glad they had managed to surprise her, as she usually “catches on to everything!”

Anne started work at Dean Hill Hospital as a care assistant on evening duty. She worked there for many years, helping those with learning disabilities.

Gradually Dean Hill closed down, and gave the residents the opportunity to move into smaller homes, where they could live an independent life, meaningful and varied lives.

Anne had the opportunity to continue her great work at Millhouse Residential Home, and after a while, the opportunity arose for her to become the joint Manager of Millhouse.

She then became the sole Manager for Millhouse when Eunice Baldwin retired.

Some of the current residents have lived at Millhouse since it was opened. Anne told the Ross Gazette that their “relationships have lasted longer than many marriages!”

All of the staff from Millhouse who have worked alongside Anne for many years, would also like to thank her for furthering their own careers.

They said: “We are wishing you all the best on your retirement, Anne. You will be very much missed by the staff and residents. All the best for the future to enjoy all the things you can do.”

Anne has also retired as Chairman of the Ross Carnival Committee, but she is still involved in the Christmas Fayre and the Country Music Festival. She also has a large garden and motor home, will be giving her dog more walks, and has bought a season ticket for swimming.

Anne will still be running the ‘Knit and Natter’ knitting group, which meet at Smallbrook Gardens on Mondays.

She will continue to work at Millhouse Residential Home until July, to ensure a smooth transition for the new Manager.