Tributes poured in at the retirement of Veronica Savill - a leading light in the town’s community and at Loughborough College’s Radmoor Nursery for almost quarter of a century.
Thousands of Loughborough children, their parents and guardians have passed through the doors of the nursery since Veronica established it 23 years ago, with many returning to join the thank you event, which lasted an entire day and evening – and coincided with the nursery manager’s 67th birthday.
Starting with only a desk, a phone and one cabin in a field, Veronica has not only created a nursery but also the Camp Energy Out of School Club, Outwoods Edge Out of School Club, Holywell Before and After School Club and the Holiday Club which together currently care for more than 200 families.
“It was a complete surprise when families began pouring in on my last day - children now in their twenties. It has always been important to me to create a real partnership with parents and a nursery community within our Loughborough community with all our families, so it was wonderful to see that many have remained friends since their nursery days and still keep in touch with each other.
“I couldn’t believe so many of these men and women remembered me from when I cared for them all those years ago and I was overwhelmed that so many people took the time to drop in and say thank you.
“In the evening I was stunned when my own children and grandchildren arrived, including my son from London, and the nursery was transformed with balloons and decorations, tablecloths and an amazing buffet from the Radmoor Restaurant team. It looked like a wedding reception.
“I have really enjoyed working for Loughborough College over the years and so many staff, including the CEO John Doherty and the Chair of Governors Audrey Traynor, came to see me and brought gifts and flowers. In fact, there were so many thoughtful cards and gifts, I was still opening everything two days later.”
Veronica received testimonials from all the nursery staff, some of whom have worked with her for 22 years - and whose daughters now also work at the nursery. Many paid tribute to someone who was not only their manager but also a friend and a mother figure.
“Veronica is one of the reasons why staff stay working at the Nursery as her passion to deliver excellent childcare is contagious!” said one. “I have worked with Veronica for 22 years,” said another. “I have grown up with her, she isn’t just a manager she has become a friend. Veronica has always been there to support me and encourage me to develop within the Nursery and to further my career. Veronica has always wanted the best for us all, at work and within our personal lives.” Another colleague described Veronica as, “kind, caring and considerate. She is the matriarch of the Radmoor family who has played an important role in the lives of staff, parents and children alike.”
“I was humbled by everyone’s kind words,” said Veronica. “I just wanted to do the best job I thought I could do and I did it from the heart, giving children love, care and education and empowering the team to help me do that. They are dedicated, passionate and committed and I couldn’t have done it without them.
“One of the team wrote a poem that ended ‘For many years you’ve worked so hard, you’ve earnt your rest and fun. So take with you love and respect from each and everyone.’ I am looking forward to spending more time with my own children and grandchildren but in Radmoor Nursery I am leaving a legacy I’m proud of and I know my team will carry that on.”