TWO medical secretaries from the Bolton Gynaecology Unit have reached a combined 82 years of NHS service.

The gynaecology secretariat staged a celebration for Oriana Bowers’ 40 years and Barbara Davies’ 42 years of service.

Oriana started working in the NHS on September 21, 1981, aged 18, after hearing how training as a medical secretary was a glamorous job.

Oriana worked as a senior medical secretary before taking flexi retirement, but then later returned as a support medical secretary in the obstetrics and gynaecology department, family division.

She said: “I’ve had experience in various specialities over the years, including orthopaedics, respiratory medicine, cardiothoracic surgery and general surgery.

“For nearly 24 years I have worked here at the Royal Bolton Hospital in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology.

“I work with a fantastic team and look forward to continuing to work for a few more years yet.”

And Barbara started her NHS career on July 7, 1979, aged 41 and now works as a senior medical secretary in the obstetrics and gynaecology department, family division.

Barbara said she wouldn’t be able to work successfully without her team.

She said: “Working within my team makes all the difference. They are close and supportive which makes coming to work an even more enjoyable experience.

“This is not a job, but a vocation.”

Amy Charnock, operational support manager, congratulated the secretaries for all their hard work.

She said: “Oriana and Barbara are both outstanding members of the team who go above and beyond for the service providing excellent patient care.

“I feel extremely fortunate to work with these lovely ladies who are not just work colleagues but they are our friends.

“They are a credit to the Family Division and we would be truly lost without them.”