Celebration of 50 Years Service

Published on 19 August 2010

Friends and colleagues joined Shirley Hawkins to celebrate 50 years of public service on Wednesday 18 August 2010. Usually someone who prefers to stay in the background, Shirley was guest of honour in the Members Room at Epping Forest District Council to hear tributes from Council Leader Councillor Di Collins, acting Chief Executive Derek Macnab and former Chief Executive John Scott. Council Chairman, Councillor Ann Grigg presented Shirley with a bouquet.

Shirley has worked for Epping Forest District Council and its predecessor Epping Urban District Council since 1960 when she was just 16. She joined straight from school, taking on what was supposed to be a temporary post.

One of the best known, liked and respected members of staff, Shirley has worked for some of the most senior people at Epping Forest District. Coming through the ranks of the old Housing Department where she became PA to Buck Buxton, she agreed to work for John Scott when Buck retired. When John Scott moved from Housing to Corporate Management as Corporate Director, then Joint-Chief Executive, Shirley moved with him. When John retired she became PA to then Deputy Chief Executive Derek Macnab who became acting Chief Executive last month.

Shirley is also well know in Thornwood. Di Collins reminded guests of Shirley's voluntary work for several local charities as well as supporting Thornwood and North Weald where her husband Cyril is chairman of the Parish Council.

Old friends and colleagues joined councillors and members of Shirley's family for the presentation of a commemorative medal to mark her acheivement. Much to the relief of Councillor Collins and Derek Macnab, Shirley has no plans to retire. Di Collins hoped to see similar celebrations for Shirley in 2020 and 2030.

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