The Drifters’ singer Ray Lewis performs private gig at Sue Ryder Wheatfields in Leeds for retiring nursing assistant

Janet Hardaker, who has worked at the hospice for 16 years, was enjoying a socially-distanced leaving party with her colleagues when the singer dropped by to perform the private gig.

American Ray - lead singer of The Drifters between 1978 and 1988 - serenaded Janet with a medley of the group’s best-known hits including ‘Save the Last Dance for Me’ and ‘Treat Her Like a Lady’.

Janet said: “I still can’t believe that Ray came to sing just for me on my last day, it left me speechless.

“My mum, who I sadly lost last year, also liked The Drifters a lot so I felt that she was there with me sharing my special day.

“I am sad to be leaving Wheatfields, as it has been an important part of my life, but I am taking some wonderful memories with me. I have made some lifelong friends and looking after patients and their family at a very vulnerable time in their lives, sometimes sharing last moments, has been a privilege.”

Ray said: “It was an absolute pleasure to see the smiles on their faces in these momentous times.

“Thank you to all the staff and management for allowing me the opportunity.”

Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice provides expert palliative care and support for people who are living with a life-limiting condition, as well as supporting their families.

The hospice also offers community services for people who prefer to receive palliative care at home. For more information, or to donate to the facility, visit www.sueryder.org/how-we-can-help/sue-ryder-wheatfields-hospice.