The chief executive of a Southampton charity has announced her retirement after 22 years.

Heather Aspinall has been at the helm of Rose Road Association since November 1994.

After starting out with the charity at its initial premises on Rose Road, she led the £5 million appeal to move the charity to its purpose-built home at the Bradbury Centre Aldermoor Southampton in 2003.

The assocation has grown to include play and activity schemes, overnight breaks and outreach at home and in the community, as well as giving information, advice and support to thousands of families with disabled children in Hampshire, Dorset, West Berkshire, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Heather said: “My passion for Rose Road and all it stands for has never dwindled. It is the most fulfilling place to work, with wonderful, dedicated people, who put each person at the centre of what they do.

“Every day I learn a story of something special going on which transforms someone’s life. Parents have told me how we saved their marriages, helped them to recharge their batteries, given a child a new interest or life skill. People look forward to coming to Rose Road.

“I do not leave in sorrow but in celebration, as I am sure Rose Road has a great future. I would like to thank everyone I have known over the years who have supported Rose Road, it makes such a difference to our children and families.”

Heather will be handing the reins to Juno Hollyhock who takes over as chief executive on May 22. Juno was previously executive director at UK charity Learning Through Landscapes.

The Rose Road Association provides respite care and other services for around 400 children and young people with moderate to severe physical disabilities, learning difficulties and/or autism from across Hampshire and the surrounding counties.