Chef who took job for two months marks 40 years

The 67-year-old, from Penicuik, will celebrate the landmark occasion with a party, including cakes and afternoon tea at the hospice - although for once she won't be doing the cooking.

Cambuslang-born Eileen joined the team in September 1970 and intended to only stay for a couple of months, but she enjoyed dishing up the daily lunches and home baking so much that she decided to make it her lifetime occupation.

She said: "I wanted to work until Christmas to earn some extra money to cover costs for the festive period and buy some gifts for my two children, but it fitted in perfectly with my lifestyle.

"I loved the people, the atmosphere and it is for a worthy cause.

"I enjoy cooking everything, but in particular I do a lot of baking, such as Christmas cakes and shortbread. I always see good, clean plates and I think everyone enjoys the food. Anyone who eats here says it's lovely and isn't like they'd expect hospital food to be."

Reaching her 40th year makes Eileen one of the longest-serving hospice staff members, and the cook said that she had no plans to hang up her chef's hat and apron in the near future.

She said: "I enjoy my work too much. Every day I prepare everything on the premises so that everything served is fresh. I wouldn't dish out anything that I wouldn't eat myself."

Eileen moved to Edinburgh in 1963 to work at Esk paper mill, where she met her husband Joseph. They were married in Bonnyrigg Church in 1964.

Before joining the hospice, Eileen had many jobs, including secretary work and a position at Edinburgh Crystal Factory.

Her husband passed away 10 years ago, but he is survived by the couple's two children, Charlotte, 40, and Mark, 43. Eileen also has six grandchildren - Mark, Jordan, Ryan, Aaron, Kayleigh and Ashleigh.

She added: "I have so many wonderful memories from my work at the hospice and have even met the Queen, Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and the Duchess of York. I'm looking forward to marking 50 years and building many new memories."

Anne Willis, manager of the Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, said: "Eileen is a popular and integral member of the team.

"She is a favourite amongst our patients, their families and the staff here, and her home baking skills are exceptional.

"We are hugely proud that our colleague and friend is celebrating this incredible 40 year milestone."