Elaine Hall, of Askern, was gobsmacked when she walked into the centre to see balloons, teddies and presents to say thank you for her hard work in the home.

She was then given more surprises when staff invited her friends, family and the centre's residents to join in with the celebrations.

Eastfield's administrator, Denise Werrett said: "Elaine was so shocked.

I think she only expected a small buffet with colleagues but when she saw everyone there she was really overwhelmed.

"In her 20 years, the care industry has changed a lot but Elaine has found it easy to adapt and absorb new responsibilities. The residents and staff love her because she's kind, caring, has patience and is a great listener.

"She's a fantastic colleague."

Elaine has been at the Moss Road home from its birth, joining on
December 9, 1988.

She is the first staff member there, to reach the 20 year milestone.
Denise added: "Because it's more like a family than a job, people love working here.

"Within the next three or four years more staff will be coming up to their 20th year too.

"People here stay for many years because it is a great place to work and I think that says a lot about Eastfield."