PASTURES new beckon for Okehampton deputy town clerk Rosemarie Richards — once she has renewed her passport!

Rosemarie has been working for the town council in Okehampton for 17 years — and although sad to retire, she is looking forward to a new life of leisure.

'I want to do some travelling — I want to go to Yellowstone National Park, I'd like to see the West coast of America, and New Zealand, but I can't go anywhere for a couple of weeks as I've just found my passport ran out in September!' said Rosemarie.

During her time with the council, Rosemarie has worked for nine different mayors and 112 different councillors.

'I've met some wonderful people and I shall miss a lot of people too, especially the people that come in to book the Charter Hall — it's the old folk I shall miss, and all my colleagues in the office,' said Rosemarie, who lives in Tavistock.

'It's been busy and interesting and I've really enjoyed it. I love the chamber and I've loved my office. I thought it was going to feel really weird, not sitting here, but now all my plants have been moved out, it seems a bit bare.

'I am so lucky to have worked with such lovely people, I've had so many flowers, but it's time to move on.'

Okehampton mayor Cllr David Weekes said it was sad to see Rosemarie leave the town council.

'She will be especially missed for her presence front of house, her greetings and her friendly way with all the regulars who use the Charter Hall and all the town facilities,' said Cllr Weekes.