STAFF from the former Lea Hospital in Bromsgrove gathered for an emotional reunion at the Holiday Inn, Kidderminster Road, last Friday.
The ex-employees shared their memories of working together at the former NHS hospital, which cared for children and adults with learning and physical disabilities.
It closed in 1992 when the Stourbridge Road site was earmarked for residential development.
Even though staff had not worked together for over 20 years, there was plenty of smiles and laughter.
Margret Hurley said she has such fond memories of her time on the wards.
“Oh the clients were lovely – we had such fun with them, taking them on holidays to the seaside, tinsel and turkey at Christmastime and having a laugh.
“Some of the patients had learning difficulties, but they were so kind.
“My sister Janet and I worked together and Janet is still in touch with some of the clients.”
Janet added: “I still get weekly phone calls from a patient, it’s lovely to keep in touch with him after all this time.
“Everybody has been chatting and having a laugh with each other, and looking back at the fond memories we have with staff and residents.
“Some of the staff are no longer with us, but most of us are still going strong.”
Avril Wood, who worked on the wards with the sisters said: “It’s been so brilliant catching up with everyone.
“I think the last time we all caught up was six years ago.
“But it’s all down to Helen, organising the reunion and getting us all here.
“She is the driving force behind it, always chatting away on Facebook.
“It was really good to catch up and now everybody wants to do it again.”
