Carol bids farewell with the Jerusalema. Thank you for your 15 years at Downham Grange

When Carol Hannan decided to take early retirement, it was quite a challenge for colleagues to think of a fitting send-off for such a larger-than-life character.

However, staff at Downham Grange nursing home, in Clackclose Road, Downham Market, stepped up to the challenge and ensured a memorable last day for their much-loved head of housekeeping.

For as well as receiving the normal farewell cake and gifts presentation, Carol, 61, was encouraged to take part in the Jerusalema dance challenge.

She said joining in the internet dance craze was a never-to-be-forgotten way of ending her 15 years’ service at the Kingsley Healthcare-run home.

Mrs Hannan, a past winner at the Kingsley Healthcare Awards, recalled: “When I started work here it was a little house with 22 bedrooms. After Kingsley bought it they built a new home around it.

“Downham Grange, with its 62 bedrooms, was finally opened in 2013; our inner courtyard garden is where the old house once stood.

“It was sad leaving the old house but it was an exciting time fitting out the new home. I was involved in bringing in the new furniture.”

She said she knew it was time to retire because it was a very physical job and she was struggling these days to get down under the beds.

“I love it here, it has been like my family, my second home,” she said.

“When Covid is over, it will be nice to come back and see my residents and colleagues.”

Mrs Hannan, who lives close by in Downham Market, said she had lots of happy memories but one that stuck in her mind was when the air ambulance came to the home three or four years ago.

“We joked that Prince William might be the pilot and then he just walked through the door,” she said.

She said she would never forget the kindness of everyone at Kingsley when her husband died last year.

“Our CEO Daya Thayan sent flowers to me at home. It was really considerate. He does not only think of you as an employee, he thinks of you as a person.”

Learn more about Downham Grange nursing home