A woman who has dedicated four decades of her life to nursing mental health patients is set to retire.

Sheila Stokell, 57, first started working at Hellesdon Hospital when she was just 17 as a cadet straight from school.

She was trained as a nurse and has continued to work at the hospital since 1970.

Mrs Stokell, who lives in Bernham Road, Hellesdon, will retire on April 14.

The married mum-of-two, who has two grandchildren, said: 'I can't really say what made me first go into it.

'I wanted to help people. In this kind of job you get to know your patients and I find it worthwhile.

'I've seen a lot of changes over the years. The way people are treated has changed and different medication has come on the market.

'Patients aren't being kept in hospital for a long while; more are getting nursed in the community.

'I have certainly enjoyed it. I don't like all the paperwork now, but I will miss working with the people I work with and the contact with patients.'

During her retirement, Mrs Stokell is looking forward to spending more time with her husband Peter, a retired plumber, and their grandchildren.

The couple enjoy fishing and have a holiday planned to go to Disney World with their daughter Hayley and her two children.

'I'm going to miss the work, but there comes a time when you have to retire,' said Mrs Stokell. 'I've been out to work since school and it's now time for me to enjoy a slower pace and have a little 'me time'.'

Do you know someone who is set to retire after many years at their place of work? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk

Have you got a health story for us? Call health correspondent Kim Briscoe on 01603 772419 or email kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk