She has helped thousands of people through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

She has transformed the Croydon University Hospital chaplaincy from a Christian team into one with around 20 active faith community representatives.

But now after 27 years, Croydon’s senior hospital chaplain, Reverend Hilary Fife, has decided to retire.

She was honoured at a ceremony on May 30 and received the keys of St Barnabas Chapel, as well as being awarded the Lancelot Andrewes Medal which recognises ‘her godly service and zeal for the gospel in this our diocese.'

Revd Fife her time at the hospital had been "incredibly powerful and emotional."

"There is a profoundly deep bond between faith, healthcare and community," she said.

“Life can be difficult and we all need continuity in our lives.

"Some 20 years ago I baptised twins and, sadly, one later lost his life. Now his twin is a talented football coach for a national team and is still in touch with me.

"It is a total privilege to be part of other people’s lives from one generation to the next."

She spent the first five years at the hospital as a newly ordained chaplaincy volunteer before eventually becoming the senior chaplain.

And it was a moment early in her career that will stick with her until the end of time.

“One remarkable moment was when the fiancé of a patient sought our urgent help," she said.

"It was a tragic situation because her partner had only hours to live – weeks before their wedding date.

"Hospital colleagues were so amazing that, together, we were able to officially marry the couple within 2.5 hours.

"Her fiancé recovered consciousness during the ceremony and he lived for one more week. It was a tremendous comfort for them and I will never forget it."

The outgoing reverend's successor will be decided later this year.