A DIY expert is looking forward to retirement after more than 46 years working for the same local firm.

Dave Sale, 62, started at Marshall & Parsons’ Leigh hardware shop as a Saturday boy in 1968, following in the footsteps of his father Chris.

He enjoyed working at the London Road hardware store so much, he never left.

His work for the business has taken him as far afield as Canada, the USA and Spain, and he admits he is proud of the way Marshall & Parsons has grown over the past five decades.

Mr Sale, of Eastwood Old Road, Leigh, said: “It started out as a small, family-run business and it’s still going strong all these years later.

“I knew pretty early on it was the job for me. I think it helped it’s so near my home, but it’s also a great company to work for.

“There are about three or four other people who have been there more than 30 years. My dad worked there from 1966 until 1989.”

Mr Sale is looking forward to his leaving party at the Elms pub, on Friday, but says he doesn’t expect his retirement to be all that relaxing.

He explained: “My wife already has a few chores lined up for me.

“I’m lucky with the way my pension has worked out. I’m able to retire early, and I’m looking forward to having a few lie-ins, especially during the winter.

“I will definitely miss everyone at Marshall & Parsons and will be staying in touch, but I must admit I’m looking forward to retirement.”