AFTER 18 years of keeping the town's civic officials in order, mayor's secretary Nancy Jones is taking early retirement.

Nancy is known to thousands of people across the town who have invited the mayor, deputy and consorts to events. She started off life at the council as a civic assistant then was promoted to mayor's secretary in 1986 when her predecessor retired.

"I have really enjoyed it," said Nancy.

"It's a fantastic job with so much variety.

"All the mayors have been very different in bringing something to their year, they all have different qualities and generally they've been very good to work for."

Her early retirement is partly due to local government reorganisation and Nancy says she's not planning on sitting back and putting her feet up. As well as spending more time with husband Alan and dog Levi, 53-year-old Nancy is hoping to find a new challenge.

"I'm looking to do something different," she said, "and possibly do some studying.

"I'm looking to improve my computer skills and see where that takes me."

Nancy officially leaves at the end of the month, though she finishes tomorrow, Friday, on leave. She will be guest of honour at a party at the town hall to mark the occasion.