A DOCTOR has his sights set on retirement after serving the Inverclyde community for a quarter of a century.
Dr David Mansfield, a consultant ophthalmologist at Inverclyde Royal Hospital, is retiring after 25 years of service.
The 62-year-old plans to return to university to study chemistry, in order to conduct his own research into the prevention of cataracts.
The dad-of-three says there have been many highlights for him whilst working in Inverclyde, including overseeing a partnership with Sri Lankan medics who have been training in the IRH.
He told the Tele: "I've been incredibly lucky to work with delightful colleagues over the years.
"I have built up friendships across the hospital.
"I've had many successes in the operating theatre and have enjoyed working with local opticians, teaching our medical students and linking with Sri Lankan clinical fellows who have trained in the hospital."
As well as lecturing overseas in places like Dubai, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Dr Mansfield says he has been 'very fortunate' to build up strong relationships with patients.
The father to Tara, Roshni and Mira told the Tele: "This is a small hospital, which means you get to know people across departments and patients become friends.
"I've built up a rapport with so many people and spent my last day going round the hospital saying my goodbyes.
"I've got a lot of people to thank, including my secretaries, fellow consultants, nurses and other staff for being such great colleagues over the years."
Dr Mansfield says he is confident the department has a 'secure future' with his successors.
He added: "The department is in safe hands with those who are taking over.
"There will be two new consultants, Sri Lankan-born Rinoza Bafiq and Shohista Saidkasimova, from Uzbekistan, who are taking over.
"A former trainee of mine, Aaron Jamison, will also be joining the team.
"They are definitely going to ensure a secure future of the department and I wish them well."
Share