The longest-serving team member from a hospice in Burnley is retiring after working 26 years on the inpatient unit.

Jane Huppach, staff nurse on the unit at Pendleside Hospice, started working there before the first-ever inpatient arrived.

A spokesperson for Pendleside Hospice said: "Farewell from the team.

"Thank you Jane for your dedicated service to the hospice.

"You will be missed dearly! We wish you all the best and the happiest of retirements!"

Pendleside exists to promote and enhance quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers; by delivering specialist and holistic palliative care, which addresses their individually assessed physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs.

Jane said: "It's been amazing to see Pendleside Hospice grow in my 26 years of being here.

"I have received an immense amount of thank you cards from patients' families over the years, and I have felt honoured to have been there for them at such a poignant time."

Fellow staff member Tracey Reger replied to a social media post and commented: "An amazing nurse, [and] a beautiful lady inside and out.

"Wishing you a long, healthy and happy retirement my friend.

"It has been a privilege to work with you over the last 23 years."

Denise Sanderson commented: "Wishing you a fulfilling and happy retirement Jane, thank you for your guidance when I worked at Pendleside and thank you for caring for my Mum during her last days."

Jill Atk commented: "From the day you welcomed me to my interview 18 years ago, you have been my role model, Jane.

"I will miss you so much! Enjoy every minute of a well deserved retirement."