Double retirement as stalwarts say farewell

HEALTH care assistant Debbie Moulton (left) and Dr. Helena Thornton

A PAIR of long-standing, esteemed employees have retired from a Royton general practice.

Former senior partner Dr Helena Thornton bowed out after 28 years with Royton and Crompton Family Practice, based in Park Street.

Health Care Assistant Debbie Moulton has also retired from the practice after 22 years of loyalty and hard work.

The much-respected community figures have both seen the practice develop, increase in size and in the number of doctors, as well as the move to its new, purpose-built health centre in 2010.

Privilege

Dr Thornton (61) joined the practice in November 1988 and worked her way up to become a full-time partner, and was senior partner until January 2016.

The Delph-based doctor said: "I have loved my time in general practice and will miss much of it.

"It has been a privilege to care for the people of Royton and Shaw, and to be alongside people at both happy and sad times in their lives."

Debbie began work at the practice in 1995 in a 10-hour-a-week administrative role, then as a receptionist, and later became a Health Care Assistant (HCA).

She said: "I have enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life - everyone comes in with a different story."

She added: "I would like to wish Dr Thornton all the very best. I have worked with her for many years and she has been a great support to me."

Royton and Crompton Family Practice organised a lunch and presentation on March 30 to thank the two exiting staff members.

An official leaving party will also take place on Saturday, April 22, at Oldham Event Centre.

Senior partner Dr Pamela Heyes said: "Dr Thornton was an inspirational GP, very supportive of her colleagues, and admired and respected by her patients.

"She worked tirelessly for the patients in Royton and Crompton, and we will all miss her enormously. She also rose to the top of her field in forensic medicine, and is involved in lecturing, examining and expert witness work. I really enjoyed working with her for 28 years.

"Debbie has been a loyal and hard-working member of the practice, much respected for her significant contribution to the HCA team, and in training the newer members of the team.

"She assisted in our minor surgery lists, and was good fun to work with. She was always cheerful, and we will all miss her help and support."

Debbie and her husband have purchased a new motorhome and are looking forward to travelling as well as looking after their four dogs.

Dr Thornton also has plans to travel with husband Christopher Halliday, who retired last January, as well as to learn the saxophone.