From starting out as a cleaner at Salop Leisure, while still working part-time as a hairdresser, to becoming an award winning charity worker - Jean Courtney, aged 63 really is an employee to celebrate.
Since joining the company, which is based alongside Shrewsbury bypass at Emstrey, in 1975 when it was located at Meole Brace, Jean’s service has shone.
She moved to the accessory shop and then onto the reception desk 20 years ago, becoming the welcoming face and voice of Salop Leisure with an amazing ability to recognise telephone callers.
Jean won a bronze award in the Mayor of Shrewsbury’s Community Awards last year in recognition of her achievements towards enhancing the social well being of the area.
For the past 12 years, she has co-ordinated a Christmas Shoebox Appeal for the Samaritans Purse Appeal, her prime motivation being to put a smile on children’s faces at Christmas and to let them know that they are not forgotten.
She is already receiving shoeboxes for this year’s appeal and is confident of beating last year’s record of nearly 500 boxes.
So what’s the secret of Jean’s long service? “I really enjoy my work, it’s a nice working environment and there is still a strong family ethos at Salop Leisure,” she said.
“I like the people I work with and I think it’s important to be happy in your job. The most rewarding part of the job is meeting people. Customers make my day.”
Tony Bywater, Salop Leisure’s Chairman, said: “Jean is a great asset to the company who sets a fantastic example with her customer service and work for charity. She is very much part of the company’s success story.”
For more information about Salop Leisure please contact Mr Tony Bywater on 01743 282400.
