A much-loved shop worker was given a tremendous send off as she retired after 17 years.
Christine Rankin was surprised with a piper greeting her when she finished her final shift in the Co-op in Hamilton.
Adored by colleagues and the community, Christine, 65, has been a popular character in the shop which she has seen go through several changes of owners over the years.
Old colleagues who worked beside Christine have since moved on but they paid a special visit to the Co-op for her last shift and presented gifts and well wishes on a happy retirement.
That was after a specially organised salute of a piper turning up to play Christine out of the store on the hour to mark her final shift.
Store manager Anne Marie McKenzie said: “We were totally overwhelmed with the number of people who turned out to see Christine off. And the piper being there just made it such an amazing atmosphere.
“The team have all been there for a long time and Christine has been a big part of that team for the last 17 years. She is loved by colleagues and customers alike and there wasn’t a dry eye in the place on her last shift.
“Christine is such a lovely woman and is always there to brighten up your day, and she will be missed.”
But it was a day of celebration for Christine who now looks forward to a happy retirement and more time to spend with family.
On the day, the much-loved shop worker was greeted with plenty of cards and presents, as well as a retirement cake.
Christine was also presented with a few bouquets of flowers which she was totally overwhelmed with as she thanks her community for their generosity.
