A MUCH-LOVED carer is set to retire after 23 years of working at a nursing home.

Chris Steel has worked at Woodlands Nursing Home in Burgess Hill since 1998 and is set to retire next week following a long career as a carer.

Chris is described as a six-foot tall loveable giant with a warm and funny personality, who always treats the residents with kindness and respect.

Tintu Kuriakose, Woodlands' manager, said: "He is always on the side of the residents, what they would like and need - he's always there for them!

"He sings and jokes and is forever putting a smile on their faces, even in challenging situations. He always ensures the residents safety and happiness."

As well as staff, the home's residents are also sad to see the senior carer go.

Alan Filliston said: "I always need a little help with my walking as I am in a wheelchair most of the time, Chris would encourage me to take a few steps every day so my legs get stronger.

"I will really miss him and wish him luck with his retirement."

While Beryl West added: "Sometimes I feel a little sad and Chris would always cheer me up.

"He is such a trickster - always playing jokes on me."

Chris is planning to enjoy his retirement by indulging his two major passions - river fishing and carpentry.

However, staff and residents at Woodlands hope he will make the occasional appearance from time to time.