AN ‘unforgettable’ midwife who has been supporting the parents of Barnsley for nearly half a century and has helped deliver three generations of local children will be missed by all as she finally decides to take some well-earned time for herself.

Mary Andrzejowska began working at Barnsley Hospital in 1984 and in the 40 years since has delivered around 5,000 babies with many of those youngsters now old enough to start their own family.

Through that time she has continued to ‘absolutely love’ her work, however at 62 has had to admit that it’s time to retire, with her final shift taking place tomorrow.

Her daughter, Helen, told the Chronicle: “She came over from Ireland when she was very young.

“She did her nurse training in Dublin, but desperately wanted to be a midwife since she was a teenager.

“At the time there were no opportunities in Ireland and she was keen to have an adventure, so she wrote to hospitals in England and Scotland using the letters of the alphabet for example Aberdeen, Barnsley, Coventry, Derby et cetera.

“Barnsley were the first to reply, so she got a bus to the port in Dublin, a ferry to Holyhead, a train to Leeds and a bus to Barnsley for her interview.

“A few weeks later she was offered a position to train as a midwife and moved over, initially staying in the nurse’s quarters at the hospital.

“And so she’s been at Barnsley Hospital ever since she talks about it all the time, she can’t believe how lucky she is.”

In the nearly half a century since she’s risen through the ranks and now works as band seven shift leader, where she’s helped colleagues deliver thousands more children.

Despite the number of people she’s helped, most people who cross paths with Mary never forget her, as her bright red lipstick and strong Irish accent make an impression.

“Everyone recognises her,” Helen added.

“People who she had supported years back come in with their daughters and say ‘Mary I can’t believe you’re still here’.

“They can never forget her and she’s always found it really rewarding.”

Sue Cooper, a retired midwife at the hospital, said: “The different midwifery roles Mary has had over the years made her a very experienced all-round midwife and manager.

“Her professionalism made her stand out she was very passionate about the work she did and was always kind and understanding to the women she cared for.

“She was a great role model and earned respect from her colleagues, who loved working with her.

“Mary certainly made a difference to the midwifery unit in Barnsley and she should be very proud of the lives she touched.”

Fellow midwife, Jackie Day, added: “She’s the best labour suite manager ever, a people person who always came to help and mucked in no matter how busy she was.

“She never went home until everyone on her shift was sorted and had a particular look she’d give you when you’re in trouble.

“But, she was respected by everyone who worked with her a total professional who loves a good laugh.

“It’s time for her to have some well deserved me time.”