NHS hospital receptionist, 90, retires after 58 years

A receptionist at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) in Edinburgh will retire for a second time this week - at the age of 90.

Cathie Lackie started her career at the city's old Sick Kids hospital in 1966 and has worked for NHS Lothian for almost six decades.

One of her early duties involved manually operating the switchboard by plugging cords into the right socket for the caller to be put through to the correct department.

The health board said Cathie's "warmth and professionalism" would be missed by staff and patients.

The grandmother initially retired 30 years ago, when she was 60 and mandatory retirement rules were in place.

But her expertise and dedication were so valued that she was quickly asked to return.

Cathie recalled: "When I first started and was on the switchboard, it was very different to how it is here now.

"I'm definitely going to miss the company and all the chats."

She also enjoyed getting to know the doctors.

Cathie said: "That's been one of the best things about working here, to see them progress from junior doctors all the way to consultants.

"Then they retire, and I see their children become doctors."

Allister Short, NHS Lothian's service director of women's and children's services, described Cathie as an "institution".

He added: "When you walked through the front door, especially at the old site, Cathie was always there with a warm smile.

"For children who were regular visitors, seeing her familiar face made a huge difference.

"Hospitals can be intimidating places, but Cathie's welcome brought comfort to so many families."

Cathie moved to the new hospital when it opened in 2021 for the final chapter in her remarkable 58-year career.

Mr Short added: "We're all going to miss that and there will always be a special space for Cathie in our hearts."

Staff who have been touched by her kindness over the years recently came together for a farewell celebration.

Cathie now plans to swap her reception desk and phone for her garden.

Her daughter, Susan Burns, said: "Working at the Children's Hospital has been such a huge part of Mum's life."

Ms Burns said her parents used to share childcare and, when the grandchildren arrived, Cathie would look after then head to work in the evening.

She added: "Her work family was so important to her.

"Even when she was meant to retire at 60 and reduce her hours, we quickly realised she was going in seven days a week!"