THE WOMAN who has cared for an East Cornwall beauty spot for more than 20 years was presented with a bouquet of flowers by family, colleagues and volunteers on her retirement.

Chrissie Le Marchant was countryside ranger for the award-winning Kit Hill. She said: 'I got the job of ranger in 1999. Before that I was a volunteer here from 1990 onwards. I've been called a warden, a ranger, an officer, a ranger again – I've been through seven restructures.

'Drop me blindfolded from a helicopter on the hill, and I would know exactly where I was. The 400 acres, although seeming the same, have subtle differences, and knowing each acre intimately is what comes from spending 14 years as the ranger.

'I have, however, just been part of the rich and varied history of this, the highest point in the Tamar Valley, and the hill will be around for many more generations to explore and get to know.'

Tim Bird, environment manager for Cormac, contractors for Cornwall Council said: 'This is a change of era. Chrissie is really part of the hill, like the geology. We have all worked very well together — it's been the true meaning of a team. It will be sad to see her go.'

Her fellow ranger Jenny Hesketh said: 'I have had the pleasure of working with Chrissie for eight and a half years.

'Her in-depth knowledge of Kit Hill's history, habitat management, her understanding of its importance to people in the area and dedication to looking after the hill, are second to none, and will be greatly missed.

'We have seen a lot of changes here, some good, some bad, and had a lot of laughs too.'