AN ANDOVER dentist has retired after 38 years in the profession - saying a fond farewell to many generations of patients. 

Philip Wray, 64, had worked at a dental practice for 35 years, before working for three years at New Street Dental Practice. 

Philip, who lives in Hatherden near Andover, said: “I’ve had lots of patients over the last 37 years, generations of families, so I’ve got to know lots of people in a familiar way.

"I enjoy dentistry and have been fortunate enough to meet and work with some fantastic people over the course of my career. Despite that, I thought now was the right time to retire, so I can make the most out of my retirement.

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“The send-off was a sad but great day. The team at New Street Dental Care are fantastic and I really enjoyed my time there. They made it super and I’ll miss seeing them all the time, but I’m still in the town so will definitely still pop in to say hello!”

Philip added that he was touched by how many letters and cards he had received as he felt he was only ‘doing his job’. He added: “It’s really nice to see all the messages from everyone. I’ve enjoyed a varied career and enjoyed working in a good practice. It’s nice to feel like you’ve helped.”

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It was after retiring that Philip decided to travel with his wife of 38 years to Norway. They went to North Cape, which is the Northernmost point in Europe, to see the Aurora.

Philip said: “We had a fantastic time, there were lots of activities for us to do on the holiday. The journey there was a bit different – we got there by boat and at one point the coach slid off the road which was intense, but when we got there it was worth the journey.

“We were lucky enough to actually see the Northern Lights on our 38th wedding anniversary.

“It was a spectacle, and we are so glad we made the journey. Now I’m retired we’ll be looking to do more of that kind of thing.”

Practice manager Clarissa Chen said: "Philip worked with us for a relatively short time in his career. When it was time for him to retire it was as if he had worked with us for decades. He is a massive part of our family in our practice.

"There was a lot of sadness for everyone, however, that retirement was greatly deserved for the service he has provided to the community. He will be greatly missed here, but he has assured us he will not be far away to have a catchup in the staff room or out for a coffee with a friend. The whole team wish him the best in his next adventure!"