A Carmarthenshire practice manager has retired after 33 years of helping vulnerable families.

Sue Marsden, from Action for Children, dedicated her career to supporting families in need across the county.

She was at the helm of numerous pioneering services, which have significantly improved the lives of families across the county.

Her projects provided critical assistance to families with children facing mental health issues and women who had their kids taken into care or adopted.

She also played a key role in introducing innovative mental health initiatives in schools, including the 'Feeling the Fizz' programme.

During the challenging times of the covid-19 crisis, Ms Marsden ensured that the essential services continued without disruption, underlining her unwavering commitment to the families and her team.

Ms Marsden said: "It’s been 33 amazing years with Action for Children, and I can’t quite believe it’s the end.

"We’ve built a brilliant and passionate team here that always go the extra mile for the families we support in Carmarthenshire.

"It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to work with them all and it’s very difficult to walk away.

"I leave the team in a great place and I’m looking forward to reflecting on the great times, camaraderie and friendships as I enter my retirement."

Charlotte Phillips, children's services manager for Action for Children in mid and west Wales, said: "It’s difficult to measure the immense impact of Sue’s contribution to Action for Children and the families we proudly support in Carmarthenshire.

"It has been 33 years of passion and dedication and she will be sorely missed.

"Staff and families have lined up to pay tribute to Sue and it’s been really moving to see just what she means to people.

"She will leave a huge hole but her legacy is a brilliant team and she richly deserves a long and happy retirement.

"We will always be grateful for everything she achieved."

Her last official act was attending the Action for Children ball in Llanelli, where she was honoured by Kirsty Williams and Sarah Maclean from Carmarthenshire’s Action for Children Action Squad.