'I can’t think of a better career than midwifery'

Diane Hele trained to be a midwife in 1978 and qualified in 1980

A woman who has worked as a midwife for more than 50 years said she could not think of a better career.

Diane Hele, 67, from Beyton, Suffolk, was 16 years old when she started to work at West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds in 1973 - before the site was even fully completed.

On Monday, following a night shift, Ms Hele was presented with a glass trophy in recognition of her loyal service.

She said: "I am so proud of the West Suffolk, and I have always had a passion for the job."

Diane Hele was presented with a glass trophy in recognition of her loyal service

During her time working at the hospital she was a state registered nurse before qualifying as a midwife in 1980.

"I married in the first year of my training, which was unusual then – I had to have special permission to have a honeymoon! I have been supported by my husband, Nigel, throughout my whole career."

She has taken part in charity events for the hospital and said she would do "anything" to help its maternity services.

"I’ve delivered babies for friends and relatives, including some of the staff here. I’ve delivered babies who have now gone on to deliver their babies - it must run into the thousands, and they are all amazing, though I do have special memories of some babies and mothers.

"I love my job and I can’t think of a better way to spend a career," she said.

Trudie Curtis, who manages Ms Hele at West Suffolk Hospital, said she was "thrilled" and the occasion marked years of hard work and dedication.

"She is an inspirational midwife who has contributed so much to sharing her knowledge and skills with junior members of the team, and to providing an outstanding level of care to the women and families she looks after.

"It has been a real pleasure to work alongside Diane for so many years and I would like to congratulate her on this huge achievement."