YME Regis mayor’s secretary Pat Stamp has retired after 31 years in the job.

Pat’s colleagues held a presentation and celebration send-off on Friday evening at the Marine Parade Shelters, Jubilee Pavilion.

Pat, who lives in Charmouth , joined Lyme Regis Town Council in 1981 and retired this month.

She said the role had changed a lot over the decades.

“The job has changed so much over the years.

“When I first started there were only three people in the office and we had a stencil machine and no computers.

“Each mayor was different.

“They all did it their own way and I just fitted in with what they wanted and worked with them.

“Different town clerks have come and gone as well and quite a few different councillors.”

She added: “It was quite sad really in a way to leave after all that time.

“It’s a long time but I’m glad because it was definitely the right time.

“It will be nice to be able to spend more time in the garden and with my family.

“It’s all been a bit of a blur really.

“It all went so quickly.

“Thirty years is a long time but it’s been really enjoyable and I’ve had some laughs over the years as well.

“It was overwhelming on Friday really to see everybody there.”

Lyme Regis mayor sally Holman said she wanted to pay a special tribute to Pat and that her support for mayors over the years was very much appreciated.

She said: “We arranged a formal presentation and all the staff and councillors were invited. Pat was extremely well respected and well liked and has done a sterling job since she started.”

“She has also run the TIC and, more recently, run the theatre and was part of an extended team.”

She added: “We all hold her in high regard, we were very fond of her and will miss her.

“I wish her a happy retirement.

“She was presented with lots of presents, along with gardener’s equipment as gardening is her favourite hobby.

“Pat has retired to spend more time with her family and I’m sure she will continue to be a valuable member of the community.”

Town clerk Mr Lewis said that Pat had always served mayors faithfully and always with a smile.

He added: “She has always been calm, reliable and the soul of discretion.

“We will struggle without her as she represents the collective memory of the council.

“She deserves a break and she certainly will be missed.”