2nd September 2022

You have touched the lives of hundreds of people in need, both those experiencing dementia and the partners and families struggling to care for them. Your calm, practical and compassionate approach and ability to always see the person and not the disease has been a solace to everyone making those first, tentative steps into the clubs

Carol Gazzard, the inspirational manager at Sidmouth Street Club in Devizes, has retired from Alzheimer's Support after 18 years.

On her last day in the club she was awarded a Community Service award by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Lady Lansdowne, one of only two awarded in 2022.

Carol worked as a support worker in the community for four years before joining Sidmouth Street when it first opened in 2008. She later took over as manager, leading the club which has been a lifeline for hundreds of Wiltshire families. 

Head of Day Care Grant Newton said: "We will miss you Carol but your retirement is so well deserved. Fourteen years leading the day club team in Devizes and four years before that in Home Support - your High Sheriff of Wiltshire's award for 'great and valuable services to the community' says it all.

"Working with you in the day club service I have seen you touch the lives of hundreds of people in need, both those experiencing dementia and the partners and families struggling to care for them. Your calm, practical and compassionate approach and ability to always see the person and not the disease has been a solace to everyone making those first, tentative steps into the clubs."

Club members said their goodbyes all week, with a final send off in the club on Thursday with cake and gifts including £180 in garden vouchers from colleagues and well-wishers.

New club manager Becci Field has been working alongside Carol since July and will take the reins fully next week.

She said: "Carol is a very hard act to follow. She has created a lovely atmosphere and the club is so friendly and inviting. I have inherited a really special place here and am so looking forward to continuing and building on what she has done."

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