A FOND farewell was paid by residents to Maureen Nesser, the much loved live-in manager of Redwood Manor sheltered housing scheme, and her husband Roger.

Mrs Nesser, who is retiring to Chiddingfold after more than 17 years, was very touched by the surprise leaving party with a specially decorated cake that had been arranged by residents of the First Port Retirement Properties independent living accommodation in Tanners Lane, Haslemere, which has 56 flats.

“My job was looking after maintenance and security and providing care and assistance,” she said. “It’s been a pleasure to be here with such lovely people. I have enjoyed every moment and they have taught me such a lot. Their generation has been through so much from WWII onwards and I have shared their happiness and sadness.

“I’ve always organised parties for them with the help of the social committee. This time, I was told not to go anywhere near the lounge that day.

“We will definitely be popping back to see them all.”

Committee member Elaine Witt said afterwards: “The party went very well.

“I’ve been here 12 years and Maureen has really gone beyond the call of duty.

“She always joined in with us in the evenings, playing music and bingo.

“If we pulled our emergency cord for the paramedics, she would come and sit with us until they arrived.

“Roger was not an employee but he has always been so good in doing odd jobs for us.

“They are a really lovely couple and a few tears were shed at the party on both sides.

“A couple of us organised the party. We learned how to do it from Maureen, herself, and all the parties she has organised for us.”