Tireless Halton fundraiser to retire after 37 years

The 61-year-old is a valued member of the adult services team and has been a tireless fundraiser since he started working Cheshire County Council in 1984 at the age of 24.

He worked at Astmoor Adult Training Centre based in Runcorn as an arts and crafts instructor and over the years the activities at the centre, which is now Halton Day Services, has developed into a community-based facility.

Phil said: “I have had a rewarding and amazing 37 years working in day services and have thoroughly enjoyed working with service users imparting my skills and knowledge to them in their various businesses and leisure settings.

“I have really enjoyed my time working alongside my colleagues where I have had great camaraderie and some good laughs.”

He added: “It was great to have opportunities to put our heads together and work on overcoming the challenges we faced.

“It’s been an honour working with everyone and I will miss working at Halton Day Services and the service users.”

During the four decades he has worked for the council, Phil has been instrumental in fundraising initiatives including swimathons and indoor cycling events and he raised vital funds for cystic fibrosis, resulting in the council being nominated for a local champion award.

He has also raised money for a sensory garden for service users at the Independent Living Centre and has been quiz master at the Christmas Ball events.

Stiofan O’Suillibhan, divisional manager for adult services, said: “Phil has finished his last working year as a frontline worker providing safe care to the residents during the global pandemic.

“He has cooked delicious healthy meals, baked and helped with gardening.

“We know all the service users will miss him and thank him for all his support over the last 37 years.

Stiofan added: “Phil has completed an outstanding 37 years of service at Halton Day Services and we all wish him well in his retirement with the adventures he has planned.”