MINEHEAD Community Hospital's most senior nurse is stepping down from duty after a career in the NHS spanning more than 33 years.

Sue Meade, who has served as matron for the past eight years, was given a farewell party by work colleagues last Thursday.

Her role at the top saw her help steer the transfer from Minehead's old hospital to a new £25.5 million development on the edge of town almost two years ago.

And she said that during her time in charge she had been very proud of the services that had been developed and delivered for the local community.

"I would like to thank all the staff at the hospital - past and present," said Mrs Meade.

"They have been a pleasure to work with and always put our patients first.

"I would also like to thank the League of Friends for their tireless support and their contribution to the experience of our patients."

Mrs Meade started her nurse training at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital in 1979 and after completing her studies in 1982 worked as a staff nurse there for a further year.

She joined the staff of Minehead Hospital in 1983, working as a staff nurse for two years but also as an acting ward sister from 1984.

In 1985 she took on the role of a ward sister proper, a job she held for the following 11 years before becoming a senior sister in 1996.

In January 2004 Mrs Meade was appointed matron and more recently has also been responsible for Williton Community Hospital.

Mrs Meade said she was leaving the hospital in safe hands following the appointment of Norma Coombes to step into her shoes.

Ms Coombes (pictured right), who will be matron of both Minehead and Williton hospitals, has been a nurse for the past 14 years, qualifying after completing her training in Plymouth in 1999.

She is currently matron of Shepton Mallet Community Hospital, a post she has held for the past two years.

Ms Coombes was formerly a ward sister at Bridgwater Hospital, eventually becoming deputy matron.

She will take up her new role later this month.