A Warwick Hospital technician is set to retire after 48 years working for the NHS - 34 of which were at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust.

Ahmed Filali Naji, better known as 'Naji', first moved to Warwick hospital in 1989 as a decontamination technician.

Naji was planning to retire before the pandemic but "felt morally compelled" to postpone his plans as his team was short-staffed.

And looking back on his near half-century of service, he said he was "very proud" and has made friends which he "will value forever".

Having been born and raised in Fes, Morocco, he successfully applied for a job as a ward orderly at King Edward VII Hospital, starting work in September 1974.

"It was a wonderful location overlooking the breath-taking village of Hatton," he said.

"I was incredibly proud to be part of the team as the care the patients received was amazing."

After the hospital closed down in 1988 he moved to Warwick Hospital and joined the hospital sterilisation and decontamination unit (HSDU).

"I developed lots of experience regarding surgical instruments," he added.

"The skills and knowledge I developed throughout the years was passed on to help my colleagues for the past 20 years.

"I have seen many changes and reorganising in the HSDU department which has helped to increase the productivity and quality of services we provide not only for South Warwickshire Foundation Trust but for clinics as far as Solihull and Birmingham."

He added: "I feel valued and part of the family here at SWFT and I will miss all the wonderful people I have worked with throughout the years. I have had so many good memories and hope to stay in touch with many friends."

Glen Burley, chief executive of SWFT said: 'Huge congratulations to Naji on his retirement.

"The hospital has been so lucky to have such a dedicated member of the team. After an incredible 48 years of service, 34 of which have been at Warwick I think it's time for a well-deserved rest!"

Anne Coyle, managing director added: "I would like to wish my colleague Mr Ahmed Falali Naji congratulations on his career at our trust.

"The trust and our patients have been fortunate to have benefited from Naji's dedication over the past 48 years. Congratulations and thank you! We wish you well in your next chapter and that you enjoy a long and happy retirement. You have deserved it!"