The longstanding manager of Warwick Visitor Centre is bidding a fond farewell to the town after nearly quarter of a century's service.

Liz Healey started working at the Visitor Centre in March 2002 and since that time has helped hundreds of thousands of people visiting the town and taken part in an array of events, many of which are regulars in the town's calendar, including the Warwick Folk Festival, Thai Festival and the Warwick Horticultural Show.

After 24 years service, she is now stepping back and has reflected on her incredibly personal connection to Warwick.

"My connection with Warwick goes back much further than my time at the Visitor Centre, she said. "I ran the newsagents in the Market Place between 1993 and 1997, which gave me a real understanding of every nook and cranny of the town and a genuine appreciation of its community.

"I also raised my family here, so recommending places to visit and sharing the town's history and hidden gems with visitors always came naturally. I think having that personal connection to Warwick helped me give people an authentic experience of the town. "After bringing up my family and working part-time, the opportunity to join the Visitor Centre was the perfect fit. It brought together my experience in travel, working with tourists and languages. When the opportunity arose to become Manager, I was proud to step into the role."

Liz described how different things were when she first joined the Visitor Centre on 5th March 2002, and what a privilege it had been watching it evolve.

"Before the internet made booking accommodation so easy, we would receive hundreds of enquiries every week and spend much of the day telephoning hotels, guest houses and B&Bs to find visitors somewhere to stay. It was a very personal service and I have so many fond memories from those early years.

"Over the years, the Visitor Centre has evolved enormously. While we still welcome thousands of visitors every year, it has also become a real hub for the local community, supporting local events, selling tickets and celebrating everything Warwick has to offer."

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After 24 years service, Liz is now stepping back and has reflected on her incredibly personal connection to Warwick (image supplied)

While she said she will miss working in the Visitor Centre and championing Warwick to everyone who walks through its doors, Liz said the time is right to start a new chapter.

"Although I will miss being part of the daily life of this wonderful town, the time feels right to begin a new chapter," she added. "I'm looking forward to spending more time with my family, watching my grandchildren grow up and finally having more time to enjoy my passion for travelling.

"When I first joined the Visitor Centre, my children, Jack and Olivia, were just five and seven years old. They were both born at Warwick Hospital and christened at St Mary's Church, so Warwick has always held a very special place in our family's story. It's hard to believe that I now have two grandchildren, one already older than my children were when I started this job, with another grandchild on the way."

She also paid tribute to her husband and colleagues, saying: "None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my husband, Mike. Throughout my career he has always encouraged me, understood the demands of the role and been there through every busy season and special event.

"His love, patience and support have meant more than words can say, and I'm looking forward to spending much more time together as we enjoy this next chapter. "I would like to thank all of my colleagues, volunteers, local businesses, Councillors and the many residents and visitors I have met over the years. It has been an honour to serve this incredible town, and I will always be proud to have played a small part in Warwick's story."