Ann Fearis, 59, or Twilly, as she is known, started work in the store at the age of 15. She said her retirement in April will be "the biggest wrench".

Ann started out in the haberdashery and hosiery department, before moving on to the children's department.

She is now a buyer for the company, choosing which fashions will be on sale.

Ann said: "The best thing about the job has definitely been the people I have met, especially as we have a lot of regular customers you get to know.

"Some of the customers I serve now, I knew as children, when their parents came into the store.

"Computerisation has been one of the biggest changes, and the change from over-the-counter service to self-service, but I am glad I am still able to help the customers in choosing what they want."

When she leaves Ann, who lives in Boxford, and her husband are planning a trip to Canada, which has been a life-long dream of theirs.

She said: "I suppose I will do all those jobs you never seem to get round to when you are working and I will probably take on a new hobby.

"I always enjoyed sewing, but never really had the time."

"The store has always provided a good service to the people of Sudbury and become part of the community really, and I also think the town itself is lovely, leaving is going to be the biggest wrench."

Richard Blatch, managing director, said: "Ann has been a very loyal and dependable member of staff and a tremendous asset to the company.

"She will be missed very much, not only by everyone here at Winch and Blatch, but also by the customers who know her well and are used to seeing her in the store."

Founder John Blatch set up his store more than 60 years ago and has seen the retail empire grow from one shop to four.

It's your turn

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