The popular manager of the Nonsuch Amusements in Saltcoats retired last Friday after 37 years with the business.

Gale Hill got a fantastic send-off on October 27 with a surprise party in the Nonsuch bar upstairs, where she was joined by colleagues, family and friends.

Gale's four decades at the Nonsuch included the time when the amusements were put out of action for months during a fire.

Speaking about her retirement, she said: "The party was brilliant, it was just terrific. It came as a total surprise.

"On Wednesday, I got called up to the bar and all my workmates and family were there with presents and flowers for me. It was lovely.

"But I had no idea they were planning a party too.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Gale with family, friends and colleagues

"My sister and I were out on Friday for a birthday meal. She suggested we pop into the Nonsuch for one drink, then head into town.

"I was totally oblivious. I thought I'd had my retiral celebration earlier in the week.

"It turned out to be a brilliant night."

Recalling the fire in the business years ago, Gale said: "It was a Saturday morning and as I got off the bus at the railway station, I could smell burning.

"The Nonsuch was closed from that September until the following June. And when we finally reopened the place was absolutely packed."

She added: "I loved the families I met there and the job. I really will miss it."

A colleague said: "Gale has welcomed generations of families into the place and is a true pillar of the community."