AMONG the first nurses at Crediton Hospital when it opened in 1988 was Maggie Mills. Her bright sparkling eyes, sense of fun and infectious laugh endeared her to many patients, and she made good friends among the staff.

Maggie was 64 when she died this month. Her funeral service was held at Crediton Parish Church, taken by the Rev Nigel Guthrie who said she had a heart of gold.

Born in Lincolnshire to a farming family, Maggie trained as a nurse with her first post being at White Lodge, Newmarket with West Suffolk Health Authority, where she stayed until 1985.

That was where she met her husband Eddie, moving to Bow with him, working at various hospitals, until Crediton Hospital opened.

Mr Guthrie said Maggie's colleagues had many good memories of her time there, she was renowned for her good memory and became an excellent mentor for many new nurses entering the profession.

He said she held traditional values and always found time for her patients. She also was enthusiastic in supporting social events at the hospital, including the hospital pantomime and Carnival float.

When the hospital had longer stay patients, Maggie arranged trips for them. Mr Guthrie said there was no doubt that Maggie was greatly respected and appreciated by her colleagues. She retired two years ago.

Maggie had belonged to the Ladies Circle of Moose International at Crediton, twice being Lady Chairman. She was also a member of the Women's Guild, enjoyed going to music concerts and travelling.

S Read