SANDRA Folkes, who has worked with the National Commercial Bank for four decades, was among the 180 employees to be honoured for their years of service by the financial institution recently.

The cocktail event was held on September 15 at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston.

Folkes, the belle of the evening, joined the bank at 17 years old. Now an executive secretary to the NCB’s deputy group managing director, Dennis Cohen, Folkes noted her pleasure at being recognised along with other employers who had served more than 10 years with the bank.

“It has truly been an honour to serve this institution for over 40 years. I feel privileged to be a part of team NCB,” she said.

Folkes and the other 179 employees honoured have collectively given 3,375 years of service to the bank.

“Today is a very special day, as we celebrate those who have given long and distinguished service,” said Patrick Hylton, NCB’s group managing director, at the event. “It has become increasingly rare to find persons who are willing to commit significant portions of their lives to one organisation. It is something to be admired and celebrated.”

In congratulating the employees, senior general manager of group human resources, Rickert Allen, emphasised that the workers had “contributed significantly to the profitability and sustainability of NCB, which is a beacon on the Jamaican corporate landscape”.

“Through your resilience, loyalty, and dedication to service, you have challenged us to continue to uphold our core values, live our vision and deliver on our mantra of building a better Jamaica,” Allen added.

Meanwhile, master of ceremonies, Winston ‘Bello’ Bell, kept the audience in stitches as he guided them through the programme. Cameal Davis serenaded the guests throughout the night and provided the vocals for the Bethel Baptist Dance Troupe’s dance tribute to the awardees. Wayne Armond kept the guests – including Miss Jamaica 2009 Kerrie Baylis – rocking.