COLLEAGUES have paid tribute to a long-serving GP as she bows out from duty after a quarter of a century working in Helensburgh.

Dr Teresa Reitano, the longest serving general practitioner at the Millig Practice, announced her retirement this week after 25 years.

She joined the practice as a GP trainee in 1995, working with Dr Brian Calder and Dr Alastair Woodburn, and then becoming a partner the following year after the retirement of Dr Roger Watkins.

Dr Reitano, who attended Lomond School, has been a resident of Helensburgh her whole life, and her family owned and operated the Augusta Lodge Café in West Clyde Street for many years.

She progressed to study medicine at the University of Glasgow, graduating in 1992 and then returning to Helensburgh in 1995.

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A spokesperson for the Millig Practice said: “She has been a central figure in the practice and worked with a succession of further partners, but none so dear to her as her late great friend Dr Liz Underwood.

“Dr Reitano’s dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of the people of her own home town over the years has made her a much loved and respected member of our society and a true family doctor, who will be missed by patients and colleagues alike.

“The practice will not be the same without her, and as we pass on our very best wishes to Teresa and her family, we too hope that she will remain our close friend for years to come.”

Dr Reitano said: “I wish to say goodbye to all of my patients, many of whom I have cared for over many years, and to thank all of my friends and colleagues for their kind wishes and support.

“I hope that I will be able to remain in contact with everyone as I move into my retirement.”