A PARISH council stalwart has decided to call it a day after nearly a quarter of a century of service to the Holme Valley.

After 23-years, parish council deputy clerk, Elizabeth Hirst has decided to retire. Mrs Hirst joined the parish council in 1984 and her association with the Holme Valley goes back to the late 60s when she began working for Holmfirth Urban District Council.

Although she has no specific retirement plans, she intends to take more time pursuing her hobbies of gardening, walking and tennis.

Joining the parish council at Holmfirth is Sally Barber who has been appointed as administrative support officer and minute clerk. Mrs Barber has experience over almost 30-years of working for businesses throughout Yorkshire.

Married with three sons, she is an award-winning audio typist, one of the fastest in the country, and enjoys following the fortunes of Huddersfield Giants.