LYNTON Day Centre is saying a fond farewell to manager Margriet Ramakers, who is retiring after 16 years’ service.

Margriet, who moved to Scotland from her native Netherlands 20 years ago, is returning there with her husband Jan, to be nearer her family and a new grandchild.

Margriet was a staff member at the centre for four years, becoming the centre’s manager 12 years ago.

James Wyllie, Lynton Day Centre chairman, said: “The day centre is held in very high esteem by the community of East Linton and I think that is largely due to Margriet’s personality and her ability to run the centre.”

During the Covid-19 lockdown, the day centre, on High Street, was closed but staff and volunteers daily cooked a three-course lunch which was delivered to clients in their homes.

James added: “[Staff] have also been doing shopping for [clients], collecting medicine, and any other errands they want us to do.

“Also, some of our volunteers have been baking cakes and sending them out with little puzzles.

“And when they’re supplying these lunches they’re in daily contact with clients, and that’s been very important to maintain during this particular time, because we’re aware our clients are isolated from their friends.

“Margriet was the driver of these ideas, along with her staff. That’s part of her skill – managing a good team of staff.”

East Linton resident Margriet’s last day at the centre will be Wednesday, when she will receive a presentation gift from James.

James said: “The sad thing is, we would have been having a party in the community hall, and all the volunteers and clients would have been there to say farewell.

“There is no other way to say thanks with all the volunteers and clients present due to Covid-19, so I’d like to say: ‘Margriet, thanks from us all and have a great retirement.’”