IN THESE days of uncertain futures and short-term contracts it is not often workers stay in the same job for very long.

So when Tom Blatcher retired recently after nearly 50 years service for Western Motor Works in Dartford, his colleagues gave him a send off to remember.

Speaking after his first few days of freedom, Mr Blatcher, 65, said: "I enjoyed my job very much but I'm looking forward to spending time doing the odd things around the house.

Mr Blatcher, a motor sports fan who used to help a friend as a racing car maintenance engineer, lives in Orpington with his wife, Ann.

December 11, 2001 10:39