A SUPERMARKET’S staff have hailed the contribution of their longest-serving member.

Gill McQueen, 59, of Kings Village, Canvey, walked into Keymarket’s on the island in the late Seventies looking for some extra money and was given a job.

Over the past 35 years, she has seen many changes, including the Keymarket’s store turning into a Sainsbury’s.

She said: “I remember on the deli counter we used scales which had to be balanced by handweights. Also butter was sold loose and we had to use paddles to pat it into blocks.”

Tracey Kern, store manager, said: “We are over the moon to celebrate Gill’s 35 years’ service.

“She is very much a valued colleague and we hope she stays with us for a long time to come”.

As well as receiving gifts from her colleagues, Gill has been invited to a special long service.