The senior caretaker has been thanked for two decades of work keeping the council’s School Place offices running behind the scenes.
Senior caretaker Norman Rendall has retired from Orkney Islands Council after 20 years at its School Place headquarters in Kirkwall.
Mr Rendall joined the council in 2006 and became a familiar presence to staff and visitors at the building. His work included responding to maintenance problems, supporting the daily operation of the offices and dealing with the practical issues required to keep the headquarters functioning.
Although much of the role took place away from public view, colleagues said his knowledge of the building, reliability and willingness to help had made him a valued member of the organisation.
His manager and friend Fiona Ratter said Mr Rendall had carried out much of his work without seeking recognition.
“Norman’s the kind of person you don’t fully appreciate until you imagine the place without him,” she said.
“He goes about his work in an unassuming way, never seeking recognition but always making a difference. He’s given so many years of helping staff with countless day-to-day issues across the building.”
Caretaking work is often noticed most clearly when something goes wrong. Over two decades, Mr Rendall dealt with the maintenance problems and routine building demands that allow other council employees to continue their own work.
His retirement follows a period in which School Place and the wider council organisation have experienced substantial operational and technological change. Through those changes, colleagues described him as a dependable and consistent presence.
Council convener Graham Bevan thanked Mr Rendall for his service and said his contribution would leave a lasting impression at School Place.
“He has witnessed significant change across the organisation over the years, yet has remained a constant, reliable presence for staff and visitors at School Place throughout,” Councillor Bevan said.
“His contribution leaves a lasting legacy, and his absence will be keenly felt by all who worked alongside him. I wish Norman a long and well-deserved retirement.”
Orkney Islands Council announced Mr Rendall’s retirement on 17 July, marking the end of a career spent largely behind the scenes but closely connected with the daily working life of its headquarters.
