A MALTON doctor who became an “adopted Yorkshireman” has retired after almost 30 years in the town.

Dr Michael Lynch moved to Malton in 1985 following 18 months working in Bermuda.

Originally from the Midlands, he trained in Leeds working at hospitals in the surrounding area, including Bradford where he met his wife, Lynda, a nurse.

Dr Lynch said it was always his intention to become a GP and, after taking a year out, took up in the post in Malton.

“It was always my intention to become a GP and I was very fortunate to find a practice where I could take on a variety of jobs and roles within that,” he said.

“I became an adopted Yorkshireman and have loved living in the area ever since.”

Dr Lynch was first based at Wellington House, in Wood Street, Norton, before the new surgery, Derwent Practice, opened in Railway Street 25 years ago.

“Back then we had no computers and all the notes were on paper,” said Dr Lynch.

He now has about 2,700 patients, some of whom he has treated all their lives.

“For some patients in their 70s I am only their second GP, whereas for others I helped deliver and look after their babies,” he said.

“I like that closeness and satisfaction that you get from working in a town like this and also the support and appreciation you get from people.”

Originally specialising in anaesthetics, Dr Lynch trained in dermatology after the closure of the operating theatre at Malton Hospital.

He has been a long-term supporter of the hospital campaigning to retain the minor injuries unit.

“I would love to see Malton Hospital as the solution rather than the problem,” he said.

“We have a fantastic little hospital in the town and great staff who want to be involved and long may it continue.”

Now 59, Dr Lynch said he had decided to retire to give younger people the chance to enjoy a similar career.

“I still enjoy coming to work, but I will be looking to take on new challenges outside medicine, including charity work,” he said.

“I will miss it hugely, though, as I have made some great friends both at the surgery and the hospital over the years.

“It has been touching to receive so many cards. Malton is a great place to live and work.”

Dr Lynch’s patients will now be seen by Dr Yang Bang Lee, who has been working at the practice for 18 months.

Married with two young daughters, Dr Lee said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“I certainly have big shoes to fill with Dr Lynch’s retirement,” he said.

Senior partner Dr Clive Diggory, who has worked with Dr Lynch since he started at the practice, said: “I can genuinely and honestly say that Mike has been a really good colleague and he is retiring too early.

“Mike has been great to work with and all his patients love him. He will certainly be missed by us all.”