A HOUGHTON Regis woman who worked in the same shop for 40 years was thrown a surprise retirement party and showered with gifts in appreciation of her “remarkable” service.
Margaret Atkins thought she was going for a couple of drinks with sister Christine at a psychic evening, but was shocked to see more than 150 workmates past and present at the celebration.
Organised by Kishor Patel, owner of the Nisa store in Hillborough Crescent since 1985, the party was held at St Vincent’s Social Club,
Margaret, 61, was also visited on her last day at work by MP for South West Beds Andrew Selous.
Mr Selous said: “Her loyalty is remarkable, something to be applauded and be proud of.”
Margaret has seen ownership of the shop she has worked in since 1972 change hands three times.
She was also given a parting gift of £2,000, of which £700 was from 70 staff members from stores in the area and the rest from Mr Patel, who said: “It’s remarkable to see someone so dedicated to her job, always happy to work extra hours and flexible. I am sure Maggie will still help out from time to time.”
Irish-born Margaret moved to Houghton Regis in the mid ’60s
“I’m still getting over it! I could have dropped on the floor when they shouted ‘surprise!’,” she said.
“I’m going to take it easy first, but then maybe a holiday to Turkey with my sister. Kishor has done a lot raising money for schools and disabled children in the area – he’s very well-liked.”