WHEN Jean Chew set off for work on Wednesday it was going to be just like any other day, she could never have guessed the surprise in store for her.

Skipton's Dyneley House Surgery receptionist might have forgotten her own 30th anniversary in the job but her colleagues were not about to let it pass without a party.

"I never gave it a thought," said a bewildered Mrs Chew as colleagues showered her with gifts. "I knew it was about 30 years but I did not know it was today."

Dr Chris Craig said Mrs Chew was the surgery's longest-serving employee.

"She does have a practical common sense about what is urgent and what isn't, and she has a pleasant manner of dealing with people who are anxious or worried," said Dr Craig.

He added that after 30 years in the job she was a great source of information as to who lived where, who was married to who and how many children they had!

When Mrs Chew began, the surgery was based in Clifford House. She helped with the move to its new premises on her birthday in 1982 and has since seen many changes including a building extension.

She said she loved her job and in 30 years had never considered moving. "The whole atmosphere is great," she added.