LIFE starts at 62 according to a newly retired Tipton woman who insists she is only getting younger after colleagues and friends bade her a fond farewell on Wednesday.

LIFE starts at 62 according to a newly retired Tipton woman who insists she is only getting younger after colleagues and friends bade her a fond farewell on Wednesday.

Dedicated Mary Bavidge, who has been manager at the Angela Court Care Home in Tipton St John for the past ten years, was thrown a garden party as more than 150 people turned out to give her a fitting send off.

Mrs Bavidge, 62, of Tipton Veil, has been unable to work since July after an accident but said the unfortunate incident has strangely aided her adjustment to a newly found freedom and overcome the difficulties of leaving her work behind.

She said: "I fractured my hip and in a funny way it was the best way of leaving, I've had my grieving, when I handed in my notice, and have had a lot of sleepless nights.

I've given everything for the home, loved it, it has been my life. We built a wonderful team that we were very proud of. It became a real home, not just a nursing home. They have been brilliant to me, always supported me and I have no regrets.

I'm 62 going on 45 and I'm refusing to get older as there are so many things I still want to do. I have so many hobbies and such a good network of friends, I'm not going to be bored."

Mrs Bavidge is looking forward to spending more time with her husband and grandchildren but hopes to continue doing some nursing work in the future.

Prakash Dewani, chairman of PSP Healthcare, said: "Mary has been the pillar of Angela Court over the past ten years and devoted her life and soul to the well being of the residents. Even one memorable occasion forsaking her own family's christmas dinner to provide for the residents when the cooker broke down".

Emma Seal has taken over Mrs Bavidge's role as manager at Angela Court.