A POLICE station worker of 50 years was given a ‘lovely’ surprise party to mark her milestone.

May ‘Betty’ Chesters joined Cheshire Police in 1967, aged 28, as a tea lady and cleaner at the old Nantwich police station, in Welsh Row.

Half a century on, she still works for the police at their current Nantwich home, in Beam Street.

In recognition of her achievement, the station threw a surprise party at the Civic Hall on Wednesday, May 17.

Betty said: “The party was a huge shock. I was told I was helping out at a charity function with the buffet and when I walked in my legs turned to jelly and my stomach turned.

“But it was a lovely surprise and it was great to see a lot of old friends as well as the people I work with now.”

Betty was renowned for her cooked breakfasts, and still stays on to make tea and toast for the officers in her own time.

She was handed a Lifetime Achievement award at last year’s ACE Awards, and her colleagues past and present sent in special messages to thank her.

“I’ve always enjoyed my job and it’s been great to work with lots of wonderful people,” Betty added.

“The time has gone so quick but I’ve got no plans to retire. I’m going for the next 50 years.

“I’m really lucky to be in good health and I plan to carry on working for as long as I can. I enjoy every minute and really appreciate the kind messages and gifts I’ve had.”