TOGETHER they have given almost 2000 years of service to Glasgow.

And now, in what will be the final celebration before the firm moves in-house to Glasgow City Council, Cordia workers have been honoured.

At the 11th annual Long Service Awards, 76 employees received recognition for 25 years service.

Robert Anderson, Head of Human Resources at Glasgow City Council, said: “The role which every employee undertakes on a daily basis is absolutely essential for Glasgow’s citizens, whether it’s a child being able to cross the road safely to an elderly resident getting round the clock home-care support.

“On behalf of everyone at Cordia I’d like to congratulate each one of our long-service recipients and it’s a privilege to commend them for their contribution to Glasgow.”

Each of the 76 recipients is part of Cordia’s operation throughout Glasgow, undertaking roles which include catering, home care, cleaning, school crossing and social work.

Since the inaugural ceremony in 2007, a total of 1250 Cordia employees have been eligible for the award, tallying an impressive 31,250 years of service.

Attendees were awarded with a medal to mark their dedication, earning an additional day’s leave and enjoying a three-course meal prepared by co-workers from Encore Hospitality Services, the contract catering-arm of Cordia.

Cordia staff carry out 95,000 home care visits per week to around 6200 elderly service users and serve 32,000 school meals per day across 139 primary schools, 29 secondary schools and 26 assisted learning schools.

Its janitors operate services in 575 premises and its cafes and restaurants pour 1 million cappuccinos per year

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council said: “Congratulations to all our long service award winners - your efforts have helped thousands of Glasgow citizens over the many years of loyalty to the council.

"I hope you enjoy your celebrations and have many more years in which to serve our city.”