The long-serving manager at Watkin-Davies Pharmacy in Bettws, Newport, has retired at the age of 91 after an extraordinary 59 years of service to the local community.
Betty Pritchard’s career in pharmacy spans over seven decades, beginning with a 13-year stint at another pharmacy before joining Watkin-Davies, where she has since become the heart and soul of the community pharmacy by dedicating herself to helping others.
Reflecting on her time at the pharmacy, Betty said, “I’m really lucky; it’s such a good position to be in. The customers are amazing, and so are the staff. The local community is very loyal and grateful. I’ve made lots of friends, and it’s just a lovely place to work.”
Betty has witnessed vast changes in the pharmacy profession over her career. She said: “Things have changed a lot since I started working in pharmacy,” recalling times when “we used to prescribe poppy heads for toothache!”
When asked what had motivated her to continue working for so long, Betty said: “I love work. I love to be in charge, and over the years, I’ve got on well with the staff. I’m still in touch with people I worked with 30 years ago.”
A resident of Bassaleg, Betty has faithfully commuted by bus to her role. She continued working full-time until the Covid-19 pandemic, after which she gradually reduced her hours to two days a week.
To honour Betty’s service, her colleagues and customers hosted a heartfelt leaving celebration that lasted throughout the day. Gifts of cakes, flowers, and champagne poured in from appreciative customers who wanted to express their gratitude for her years of dedication.
As she steps into retirement, Betty is not short on plans. “I still like to organise, which is hard to give up”, she admitted. Known for her homemade pickles, Betty intends to keep busy by making them as gifts for her colleagues this Christmas. She also plans to decorate her house from top to bottom for the festive season - a tradition she holds dear.
Betty’s departure marks the end of an era at Watkin-Davies Pharmacy, where she will be greatly missed by colleagues and customers alike.