AN ‘extraordinary’ consultant at Halton and Warrington hospitals has been showered with praise after his well-deserved retirement.

Consultant Histopathologist Dr Mohammad Al-Jafari has bid farewell to Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust after 37 years of service.

This makes him the trust’s longest serving consultant.

Dr Al-Jafari completed his basic medical qualification in Iraq, followed by specialist training in Nottingham and Merseyside.

During his time in Warrington and Halton, he became clinical director for pathology then divisional medical director.

He more recently worked as associate medical director for appraisal and revalidation.

In this last role, he was responsible for high standards in medical appraisal as an unfailing support to colleagues as part of the important medical revalidation process.

Simon Constable, chief executive of Warrington and Halton hospitals, offered his heartfelt thanks to the retiring consultant for his service.

“Dr Al-Jafari embodied all that is extraordinary at Warrington and Halton hospitals, and the NHS as a whole,” he said.

“He is kindness personified with a gentle manner that put everyone at their ease, while supporting excellence through working together, being inclusive and embracing change.

“He will be sadly missed, but he leaves to start what looks like being a busy retirement with his wife Bushra, who is also a histopathologist, their three sons and four grandchildren.

“We all wish him a very happy and healthy retirement.”