A long-standing employee of the Malvern Hills Conservators is retiring after 29 years.

Bob Allen, from Hollybush, started work as a member of the field staff in 1976 and has remained in the job ever since.

Mr Allen, who turns 65 next month, will retire on June 3.

His duties include emptying litterbins, carving stone way-markers and cutting back trees and undergrowth.

"The job changes every day. You come into the office not knowing what you will be doing that day," he said. "I shall be very sad to leave. It'll be a big change and I'll miss the people I work with."

Mr Allen said his retirement would give him the chance to tackle his own garden.

Ian Rowat, the director of the conservators, said: "Bob has been a valued member of staff. He has a tremendous range of practical skills and a real knowledge of the area."