Six years after retiring, a Castletown man who gave almost 50 years of his working life to the government has finally been rewarded.
Ina special presentation on Tuesday, former landscape gardner Gerry Taylor was presented with an illuminated address in recognition of his long years of service.
Signed by Lieutenant Governor Adam Wood, the document is traditionally given to long-serving employees on their retirement but many workers are believed to have been missed in recent years.
The award was made possible by Gerry’s former colleague Bill Galley, who is now chairman for the employees side of Whitley Council, the body that represents public sector manual workers.
Bill told the Manx Independent: ‘When I found myself in the position to right the wrong, I was determined to do something about it. I thought, “I can put this right” and I’m really proud that we’ve done this for Gerry.’
Having startedoutas an apprentice gardener at Government House, Gerry went on to spend 48 years tending the grounds there and latterly at Ronaldsway airport until he retired in 2009.
Eric Holmes, regional officer for the Unite union, said: ‘It’s very unusual to have employees giving such long service and we’re delighted that it has been properly recognised.
‘It’s a few years late but the important things is that it might pave the way for others who should also be rewarded.’
Gerry thanked everyone who attended the presentation and all those who had made it possible.