A doctor who has worked in Silsden for almost 30 years retires on Friday as a senior partner.

Dr John Fontana started working at the Health Centre in 1973.

When he first qualified, Dr Fontana worked in Worcester and Coventry in 1969, before getting further training at Airedale Hospital.

As part of the training he worked at Ling House Surgery, in Keighley, and Addingham, as well as the Silsden surgery.

Dr Fontana enjoyed his initial six months in Silsden and went on to become a senior partner at the Health Centre, in Elliott Street. The practice also has a surgery in Steeton.

Dr Fontana said he would miss working in the area.

He said: "I have got to know a lot of the patients really well over the years, and have met some real characters, particularly some of the elder patients.

"You don't realise how much they depend on you, and I have enjoyed being part of their support system.

"The staff are all lovely as well. I just want to say thank you to everyone who has passed on their best wishes for the future -- I'll miss them all."

Dr Fontana will continue to do locum work and anaesthetic sessions at Airedale Hospital.

But he is looking forward to holidays in Italy and to indulging his hobbies, including cycling, photography, walking and gardening.

Dr David Heppell will be taking over from Dr Fontana at what will now be known as The Silsden Group Practice.

All Dr Fontana's current patients have been transferred to Dr Heppell.