A GREAT-GRANDMOTHER has retired after working for 31 years at a Rudheath post office.

Sybil Riley, 81, became a member of staff at Middlewich Road post office in 1986, but retired last week.

Her colleagues and friends threw a surprise retirement party on June 5 to celebrate her years of hard work and dedication to the shop.

Sybil, from Rudheath, said: “I was so shocked to walk into the place and see all my friends and colleagues from over the years there.

“I used to serve people in the post office as children, and it got to the point where they’d walk in grown up with their own children. It’s been a long time but I’ve loved every moment of it.

“I’d like to thank all the staff who have been brilliant, especially to the owners Liz and Ken who supported me, particularly when my husband passed away 12 years ago.

“I don’t know what I would have done without that support, and it was a really tough decision to have to leave as I just like to keep myself busy.

“It’s been a wonderful 31 years, and I will miss all the people dearly.”

Sybil has two children, four grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Liz Bloomfield, Sybil’s boss, has paid tribute to the work Sybil has done over the years.

Liz said: “When my husband took over, Sybil was already here and she’s been a fantastic member of staff for all that time.

“She’s been with us through good times and bad, and we’re very sad to see her leave but she told us it was the right time.

“We’re sure she’ll be back here plenty, but for now we wish her a happy retirement.”