COLIN’S 60TH BIRTHDAY TAKES HIM TO DOWNING STREET

Jul 4 2008 by Karen Wilson, The Journal

IT’S not just the NHS which celebrates its 60th birthday this year – it’s in good company as Northumbria Healthcare’s gardener Colin Ferries has also turned 60.

It will be a birthday to remember as he was invited to 10 Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister on July 2. Colin attended a reception for 150 frontline NHS staff to mark the enormous contribution made during the 60 years of the NHS.

Colin started working for what was then Northumberland Health Authority in 1995 and since Northumbria Healthcare was formed he has worked at both Hexham and North Tyneside general hospitals.

In the six years he has been based at North Tyneside General Hospital he has become known to all of the staff in the hospital due to his sunny disposition and ready smile.

Colin’s manager is Brian Griggs, director of estates for the trust. He said: “I’m very proud that Colin was chosen to represent the trust at Downing Street to mark the 60th celebrations and it’s very fitting that it is also his birthday this year.

“His hard work and skill have transformed the courtyards of the hospital into havens of tranquillity for patients and visitors. Colin has created a flower bed to mark the 60th anniversary of the NHS which visitors can see as they come into the main entrance of the hospital.”