Honiton: 55+ Centre joined by MP for emotional farewell and thanks to long-term staff

Members of staff, a Devon councillor and an East Devon MP joined together to bid a fond farewell to two members of staff who have served over 31 years at the Honiton 55+ Centre. 

Simon Jupp, the MP for East Devon, and Councillor Phil Twiss attended last week's event. It was also attended by the organisation's chairperson, John Zarczynski.

Jean Richardson and Caroline Miles have been working at the Honiton 55+ Centre for more than three decades but they are both retiring this summer. 

As respective manager and deputy manager, Jean and Caroline have played a key role in the centre's day-to-day activities including day care provision, social activities, entertainment, day trips and providing food to the most vulnerable. 

The 55+ Centre opened in 2015. It is a registered charity which provides day care for the over 55s in Honiton and the surrounding villages. It is located at the St. Michael's Community Centre on Orchard Way and was previously known as St. Michael's.

During the pandemic the centre continued to look after the people of Honiton by delivering freshly cooked hot meals to its users and members of the public (something it continues to do today) providing a vital service to Honiton's most vulnerable residents. 

John Zarczynski is the charity's Chairman. John told Nub News: "The centre's dedicated staff provide a service which is second to none to Honiton's most vulnerable people, many of whom live on their own and look upon the centre as their second home."

John continued: "I pay tribute to Jean and Caroline who have been integral to the success of this service. 

"We are sad to be losing them but wish them the happiest of retirements. We are lucky to have a brilliant team who will be stepping up and I am grateful to Simon Jupp for coming to see the important work we do at the 55+ Centre."

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon said: "I want to thank Jean and Caroline for their dedicated service to residents across Honiton and our wider East Devon community. 

"They are an example of the best of us in our county, and they will be truly missed by the team and residents alike. 

"I also want to thank John Zarczynski and Councillor Twiss for their hard work in ensuring the 55+ Centre has the funding and support it needs."

Leanne Gavin will take over as the new manger and Sally Maybry is the new assistant manager.

You can find out more information about the 55+ Centre here and can contact them on 01404 43545. 

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