At one point in his career, Laurence was a diet chef where he had his own kitchen and would prepare food for patients with diabetes and other conditions. He was also a night cook for a time, making sure that hot breakfasts were ready for patients and staff every morning.
He commented: “Food is an important part of a patient’s recovery. We give them the food they need to get better. I honestly don’t know where the time has gone. There have been so many changes over the years with equipment and locations, but at the heart of it all is our patients, and that is why we all do what we do. I am not ready to retire yet. I still love coming to work, being part of a great team and looking after others.”
Laurence was presented with gifts, a card and a tasty buffet that was prepared for him by his colleagues.
Professor Karen Dunderdale, chief executive of Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, added: “I would like to thank Laurence for all of his service to the NHS and to the millions of patients and colleagues he has supported over the years. This is a huge achievement and something that we could not let pass unrecognised.”