A local staff nurse is heading for retirement after more than four decades of public service.
Richard Milne, 65, worked at Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre until January 2026 when he hung up his stethoscope for the final time.
He devoted 43 years of his life to working as a nurse. He started his career up in Aberdeen where he began his training as a nursing assistant, before moving down to Dundee to continue his studies, and later transferring to Stirling. He then moved on to work in Sauchie.
Discussing what it is like to be retiring he said: “It’s pretty surreal to be honest. I really can’t believe it. After many years of hard work, I am certainly ready for it!”
On his final day, the staff nurse received a warm reception from his colleagues. There were balloons, cake, and even a banner saying ‘The legend has retired’.
Speaking about how appreciative he was of the gestures, he said: “I didn’t have any idea about what was going to happen. But you know, it has been amazing. It really was lump in your throat kind of stuff.
“Plenty of people that I used to work with, that couldn’t attend today, have been popping in all week. It has been really nice.”
Richard’s colleague, Jijo Johnson, played a big role in organising the get-together. He spoke about how deserving his fellow staff nurse was of this moment. He said: “I have been working with Richard for three years now.
“He always helps everyone, and there are never any limitations for what he wouldn’t do to help.
“His knowledge of nursing is amazing, and we are all really going to miss him.”
For the newly retired nurse, it will be all about putting the feet up and getting some well-deserved rest, which he may find hard to get with his seven young grandchildren on the case.
