Eastbourne cleaning manager retires after 33 years

Mary, 74, began work at the centre as a toilet cleaner in 1985 then progressed to supervisor and finally manager, responsible for a 14-strong team.

During her time at the centre, Mary became a familiar friendly face to hundreds of customers over the years. As well as a shoulder to cry on for many shoppers, she has also delivered a baby boy in the ladies’ toilets.

Mary said, “I absolutely loved my job and the people that I met. I have been asked advice on many things over the years. I knew so many people in the centre and I will really miss seeing them every day. It was a fantastic place to work.”

At one stage during her career, Mary’s husband Geoff, 82, also worked for the centre. The couple have three children, seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren between the ages of 18 and five months.

Mary said during the last 33 years the biggest differences in her job had been the dramatic increase in the number of visitors to the centre and extensive health and safety regulations introduced.

“I’ve left just as the centre is changing dramatically with the new extension but I’m really looking forward to seeing it all finished,” she said.

Manager Bill Plumridge said, “I’d like to thank Mary for her hard work and dedication. She has been a great asset to our team and given an excellent level of customer service. We will all miss her.”