End of an era as much-loved Gompels team member Dolly retires

A much-loved member of staff at D&M Gompels in Melksham retired at the end of March after almost 25 years with the pharmacy.

Caroline Richards, better known as Dolly, joined Gompels in August 2002 and has become one of the business’s most familiar faces, known to customers and colleagues alike for her warmth, humour and support.

Owner Paddy Gompels said Dolly had been a huge part of the business for years. He said, “You’ve been a staple here at Gompels… for as long as I can remember,” and thanked her for her for “years of commitment, wonderful energy and of course, the annual Grand National bets.”

Nick Gompels described her retirement as “the end of yet another era”, adding: “We can never have another Dolly because there is no one else quite like you.”

Colleagues said Dolly’s impact on the team went far beyond her role. Viv said: “It has been a joy to work with Dolly. She truly is a one-in-a-million work colleague and friend.” She also recalled being welcomed into the Gompels “family” by Dolly, including on staff cycling trips where the destination “was always a pub!”

Messages in Dolly’s leaving card reflect the affection felt across the team. One wrote, “The place will never be the same without you,” while others added: “You will be so missed,” “Please don’t leave us,” and “It’s just not going to be the same without you.”