An A&E receptionist retiring after more than 40 years has lifted the lid on the stresses and positives of working on the front line.

Brenda Smith, of Parsonage Lane, is set to receive a hero’s send off today at Chase Farm Hospital, on The Ridgeway, as she retires from 41 years of service.

The 75-year-old started as a nurse before moving to reception at the hospital's busy accident and emergency unit, which closed in December 2013.

Recalling her memories of working there, Mrs Smith told the Enfield Independent: “There is a lot of pressure, being on the front line, and being the first person people see.

“You have to remain calm and help people because a lot of the time they can be very stressed and I am the one checking them in.

“People lose their cool and become angry and there have been times when I have lost it, but on the whole I have tried to remain happy and upbeat and it is lovely to hear people compliment you and how much you have helped them in their darkest hour.”

Often working nightshifts, Mrs Smith has seen many people come through the doors and believes it has changed her.

She said: “The biggest learning curve was learning to work with people and speak to different people every day. When I started I was very shy but doing this job has meant I have learn a lot of people skills and made many friends for life.”

Mrs Smith recalls one of the tougher moments during her time when she was a nurse and helping a woman who was dying from cancer.

She said: “I just remember holding her hand and being there for her. It gives you a perspective on life and you learn how to cope with these sorts of things.”

She added: “Every day of my life and has been different and that’s what has made the job so wonderful, dealing with different people and meeting people I will never forget.”

Keen cruise travellers, Mrs Smith and husband Peter plan some time to relax but the 75-year-old admits she does not know how much she will miss the job.

She said: “Come back to me in a year and I can answer that, I think seeing the people will be the biggest miss but I have lots of friends who I can meet and visit and for that I am very fortunate. It’s been a wonderful 41 years and being there has made me an Enfield girl.”