The longest-ever serving staff member of the National Council for the Training of Journalists has left the organisation after almost 30 years of service.

Jan Alder has bid farewell to colleagues at the NCTJ, which she joined in April 1989.

Jan initially worked as an administrator in the NCTJ’s examinations department, before moving to become director Keith Hall’s personal assistant in October 1990.

She has since worked with three succeeding chief executives – Rob Selwood, Sally Mellis and Joanne Butcher.

From left: Joanne Butcher and Jan Alder

Said Joanne: “Jan has given outstanding service to the NCTJ for almost three decades and loyal support to me (and my three predecessors) personally for which I am eternally grateful. We wish her every success, good health and happiness for the future.”

A special lunch was held in Jan’s honour on Tuesday.