DARWEN Library said farewell to a staff member who gave 33 years of service.

Marie Heys is retiring just weeks before her 60th birthday to play a more active role in her family-run cleaning company.

Mrs Heys, of Crosby Close, joined the library in 1971 and worked part-time.

Susan Law, head of library and information services and a close friend, said: "During the time Marie has been at Darwen there have been a lot of changes and improvements to the library and she has contributed to those improvements.

"She was a very popular member of staff and will be missed very much not only by her colleagues but also by the people who use Darwen Library."

Mrs Heys received a jewellery, a crystal picture frame and flowers on leaving. The presentation committee included Norma Monks, assistant director of culture, leisure and sport, and Cath Sutton, library operations manager.

One major changes during Mrs Heys's service has been the transition from the 'brown issue' system of filing books to the modern-day computer system.

She said: "There are more young people visiting the library and they are trying to encourage today's youth to make use of the facilities such as the computers and internet."

Mrs Heys is also looking forward to having more time to herself, taking holidays and walking - one of her favourite past times.