CARE WORKERS org-anised a surprise farewell for the retirement of ‘one of the best’.

Roger Sanders, 70, has stepped down from his role as senior carer after 15 years with Agincare, Weymouth.

Colleagues gathered at the Lynch Lane office to give their thanks for his dedicated hard work.

Mr Sanders said: “It was a lovely surprise.

“I received some really kind words.

“Colleagues were saying that I’ve been ‘one of the best’ so to hear that was particularly humbling.

“Some people wake up on Monday morning and absolutely dread the day ahead. I’ve never experienced that.

“It’s strange for someone to say they enjoy their job but I have thoroughly enjoyed it.”

The father of three and grandfather of seven has lived on Portland for around 30 years.

Mr Sanders said he will be kept busy by his dog, 10 cats and sailing.

Agincare chief executive Raina Summerson said: “Roger has been one of our longest standing members of staff.

“Over the years we have had various compliments from service users who he has gone out of his way to help. He is popular with colleagues, clients and we have to thank him for all his hard work. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Mr Sanders was presented with an engraved decanter and tickets for the Russian ballet at Weymouth Pavilion. He said: “Everyone has been so generous. It was an emotional but lovely afternoon. My wife and I love the ballet so the tickets were a great gift.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my work. One of my colleagues said: ‘You’re a legend, Roger.’ “When I was leaving, some of the service users shed tears.”