THE chief executive of a Kates Hill charity has retired after 11 years in the role.

Janet Hilken (pictured right) has headed St Thomas’s Community Network since January 2001.

She left the Beechwood Road centre on Friday July 27, after enjoying a celebratory party on Wednesday July 25.

No new chief executive has been appointed, with the charity deciding to carry on the everyday running headed by its team of managers.