SHE HAS devoted 27 years to helping Huddersfield victims of domestic violence rebuild their lives.

Now Crosland Hill grandmother Pat Lodge-Thomas will be handing back her keys as she begins her retirement.

The Women’s Aid refuge worker never imagined she was embarking on a lifelong career when she arrived there in 1981, badly beaten after fleeing a violent homelife.

The destitute mum-of-three had to rebuild a life for herself and her children – aged just seven, 11 and 12 at the time.

But little did she know her experience would be the start of helping hundreds of other vulnerable women find a safe haven.

Pat – now widowed after happily remarrying Jerry Thomas – said: “Refuges then were not like they are now. In those days they had no funding.

“They were in poor buildings and had poor facilities. It was a dark time.

“I had stayed in that domestic situation for all the reasons you stay but I knew I had to make a clean break.

“I was better being in there and being safe than if I’d gone to my family, because he would have been able to find me.

“It was just nice to feel safe and was a stepping stone for me until I got rehoused.”

After creating a new life, Pat began voluntary work at the refuge – the location of which has to remain a secret.

She was eventually offered paid work and has never looked back.

She said: “I have worked with hundreds of fabulous women and children over the years.

“Everybody comes in fleeing domestic violence. For some it might be the first time they are hit or they may have suffered for years.

“It is all about power and control and it goes across all classes and professional boundaries.

“You see women when they come in, how nervous and stressed they are. But when they leave, they are strong and happy.

“If you can help someone move on and get their life back on track it is so good.

“When you see women and their children in a new property it is just brilliant. It is a really good feeling.”

Rock’n roll fan Pat is now hoping to take up voluntary work in her retirement and is considering writing a book about her experiences as a refuge worker.

Rebecca Hirst, director of Pennine Domestic Violence Group – which runs two Women’s Aid refuges across Kirklees – said: “Pat has been known for her dedication and commitment to victims of domestic violence and has played a vital role in raising awareness of domestic abuse throughout Kirklees.

“Her contribution will be missed and we wish her the best for the future.”

A 24-hour phoneline is available for those needing advice about domestic violence by calling 0800 052 7222.