Mrs Halliday began her career as a midwife and has continued serving as a maternity healthcare assistant even after retirement, supporting countless families across generations.

Recognising her remarkable contribution, Mrs Lockhart recently presented Mrs Halliday with a Queen Elizabeth II Centenary Cameo Brooch 2026 as a token of appreciation for her lifetime of service.

Commenting, Mrs Lockhart said:

“Some people leave a mark on your life, but there are others, like Esther, who leave a mark on generations.

Over 55 years, she has supported families at one of the most important moments in their lives. The number of babies she has helped bring into the world, the reassurance she has given to new parents, and the care she has shown cannot be measured.

I have had the privilege of knowing Esther both professionally and personally, and she is truly one of a kind. She was one of the very first people to help me when my own child was born, guiding me through those early moments with calmness and kindness when everything felt new and overwhelming.

It was an honour to present Esther with this brooch as a small token of appreciation for a lifetime of care, compassion and dedication. She is a remarkable woman, and I thank her for everything she has done, and continues to do, for so many families.”