A BORDERS pharmacist has retired after almost four decades in the role.

After 37 years Kay Darling, who has taken early retirement from Boots in Melrose, began her career at the store in Hawick

Kay’s career took her out as a relief pharmacist around the Borders, St Boswells and then back to Melrose.

She said: “I’ve been a pharmacist for over 37 years and feel it’s time to spend more time with my family.

“Over the years I’ve worked with many fantastic colleagues, past and present, and I consider them my friends.

“It’s a fantastic team.

“The team’s changed over the past few years but we get on so well.

“We have a lot of fun and the customers notice that.”

Kay was born in England and her family settled in Galashiels when she was young.

She attended Langlee Primary School, Galashiels Academy and then studied at Heriot Watt University.

Over the course of her career, Kay has served many customers and witnessed a lot of change within the industry.

She said: “The job itself has changed a lot.

“When I first qualified we were seen as glorified dispensers, we were checking prescriptions. Nowadays it’s a lot more demanding.

“There are a lot of services now that we offer that we didn’t before.

“It has changed an awful lot.

“I still enjoy the job but I’ve done my time.”

Kay’s retirement comes just ahead of her son’s wedding and her 60th birthday.

She added: “I’m looking forward to having my own time.

“I’ll get to spend time with my four grandchildren.

“I’m looking forward to doing my garden too.”

Kay is also hoping to get out more with her Patterdale Terrier called Murphy.