Residents of a sheltered housing scheme in Low Moor, Bradford, made sure their warden, who has been there since it opened, started her retirement in style.

Susan Priestley, 68, started working at Avery Tulip Court 35 years ago, and has been warden there ever since. Later this week she will start a well-earned retirement, and colleagues, residents and family said goodbye by organising a surprise party for her.

About 70 people attended the evening event, with residents giving her a cheque for £500. It was presented by Muriel Holroyd, who has lived at the complex for as long as Mrs Priestley has worked there.

One resident, Linda Metcalfe, said: “We gave her a cheque, a few gifts and a mountain of cards. She does everything for us and really went beyond her remit here.”