Two Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust colleagues are celebrating their combined 70 years of service.

Learning and development partner, Julie Morgan, marks four decades in service, while Ridge Hill Centre receptionist, Valerie Bridge, retires after 30 years.

Ms Morgan started her NHS career as a teenager, initially joining as a 16-year-old clerical officer in 1984 on a contract meant to last three months.

She's seen the workplace transform over 40 years, moving from a system based on alphabetised medical cards to a tech-integrated operation in 2024.

She served the NHS in various roles ranging from an admin team member to supervisor, before settling into her current area of learning and development.

Here she concentrates on honing the skillset of future talent through training, apprenticeships and education programs for colleagues.

Reflecting on her career, Julie Morgan said: "I’ve been very fortunate over the years, it’s all about the people you work with that become your friends and family.

"I love being around people and helping others, I think working in the NHS matches my personal values and you can make a difference."

Her achievement was honoured with a celebration at Penn Hospital and tributes from across the Trust.

Meanwhile, Valerie Bridge, a seasoned receptionist retiring this month, is acknowledged as the face of Ridge Hill Centre, a prominent hub for learning disability services in Dudley borough.

Her career began at a GP surgery in Cradley Heath before becoming a receptionist at Delta House in West Bromwich.

She stayed there until it closed before joining the Dudley Learning Disabilities admin team.

Valerie Bridge said: "I would like to thank my fantastic colleagues for their support and kind words as I close this chapter of my life.

"It’s been a privilege to help support our communities and to help make a difference."