STAFF who between them racked up 70 years of service at a hardware shop were given a surprise send-off by colleagues when they retired.
Staff at Maxwell’s Hardware Store, in Barnard Castle, said a fond farewell to two long-serving workers – manager Keith Potter and customer
service adviser Barbara Pattison.
The duo were surprised by colleagues who decorated part of the store with balloons and banners to wish them well in the retirement. A celebratory cake was whipped up by Jane Teasdale.
Mr Potter, from Penshaw, has managed the store for the past 18 years, having been with the company for 41 years in total.
He said: “It has been a pleasure. I took a last look around the town this week and I will miss it, but I’m looking forward to spending more time with the grandchildren and getting a bit of gardening done. My wife is busy making a list of things she wants done as well.”
Mrs Pattison, from Etherley, said she didn’t want any fuss and was overcome with emotion when she was presented with flowers and gardening vouchers
She worked for Wilkinson’s Hardware for five years before the company was taken over by Maxwells, where she continued for another 29 years.
“It’s going to be nice just relaxing this Christmas just enjoying my time off,” she said.
