A MAN who started working for a DIY store at the age of 14 is still going strong 51 years later - and has vowed to continue for as long as possible.

Derek Lakey first worked for Stourport-on-Severn business Wigley, on Saturdays and in school holidays.

He took on a full-time position a year later after leaving school at the age of 15, at which time, the company was a wood turners.

Mr Lakey is now manager of the wood department, having evolved with the firm.

Despite reaching 65 on Wednesday, he is adamant that he won't give up the job he loves - although he is cutting back his hours.

But for the Worcester resident, who lives in Lansdowne Crescent Lane, there was a hint of sadness on his big day.

His twin brother Don started working for the company on the same day, and did so until he died from cancer in 1992.

He said: "If I could have one birthday wish it would be that Don was with me.

"But while I got a bit choked about that, it was a fantastic day.

"I have been treated more like a friend of the family than an employee and I love working here.

"I live alone, having never been married, and I didn't want to give up the job I love, so I was happy when they said I could reduce my hours. I hope to carry on working until my health fails me.

"It is a second home to me."

Mr Lakey was presented with some gardening equipment by his 24 colleagues to mark his birthday, while the owner of the company, Jenny Wigley, gave him a TV and a DVD player.

The shop manager, Phil Thompson, said Mr Lakey was a valuable asset to the firm.

He said: "You don't get many people as loyal as him and everyone is really glad he is staying on - he is a really popular man.

"We won't get another 50 years out of him, but it might be another 15."