A FORMER nurse will abseil down Warrington Hospital later this month – at the age of 81.

Sheila Craggs from Lowton started her nursing career in the early 1950’s at the then Warrington Infirmary and Dispensary before moving to Leicester for midwifery training.

She then returned to Warrington to train as a school nurse and went on to work in the refugee camp at Culcheth in 1957.

Sheila also organised mass polio immunisations in factories, started a clog clinic for children with flat feet and encouraged factory owners to provide day nurseries.

She also joined the Territorial Army and became a member of Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps – she met her future husband while working as a matron in army camps.

Moving to London to continue her career when newly married, Sheila came back to Warrington again in 1975 and worked in the Winwick, Culcheth, Croft and Glazebury areas for the next 20 years – spending much of her time looking after the travelling and homeless communities.

After a nursing career spanning six decades, Sheila retired in 2002 but continued her ties with the NHS by chairing the Warrington branch of the NHS Retirement Fellowship.

Now she will take part in Warrington Hospital’s second annual abseil on September 27 with her daughter Katy.

Sheila said: “I was asked to explain why, at the age of 81, I’d agreed to do the abseil and all I can say is it seemed like a good idea at the time.

“I’m very appreciative of the varied support that myself and the rest of the retirement fellowship members have received from Warrington Hospital in the form of space to hold meetings, donations and most importantly care for sick and ill members.”

Helen Higginson, charitable fundraising manager at Warrington Hospital, said: “We are delighted that Sheila has agreed to join us on the abseil.

“It is open to anyone who would like to take on this fun challenge, we want as many people as possible to join us.

“Every penny raised goes towards projects at the hospitals that benefit patients.”

If you are interested in taking part in the abseil call the hospital’s charity team on 664 222 or email info@whhcharity.org.uk.

The NHS Retirement Fellowship meet on the last Tuesday of every month at the education centre at Warrington Hospital, with all ex-NHS employees welcome.