THE Malvern-based Partnership Housing Group presented a long-standing staff member with a gold watch on his retirement after 25 years with the group.

Denis Grimes worked for Malvern Hills District Council and then for the Housing Group after the transfer of housing stock in the area.

Mr Grimes, who was also given a garden shredder by fellow members of staff, was born in Chelsea but moved to Ledbury.

He was the painting supervisor with the technical services department of the Housing Group and technical services manager Paul Simmonds said Mr Grimes would be missed by his colleagues.

"Denis is a popular member of the team and it won't be the same without him.

"We wish him and his wife Ann a long and happy retirement," said Mr Simmonds.