Sheffield grandmother reveals retirement plans after bidding farewell to Beres after 36 YEARS

Ethel Overend of Stocksbridge who joined Beres Pork Shop company when she was 32, said she will miss her colleagues and her customers but now she looks forward to opening a new chapter in her life after her retirement.

The 68-year-old said: "It will be very emotional for me. I've always loved working at the shop. I love the area, I love the customers."

She said when she first joined the Beres family business, it was managed by owners Sandor and Eileen Beres and now the business is run by their son, Richard Beres.

"I used to work with Richard's mum and dad. And then, it progressed from that and it's done fantastically well.

"I would recommend working at this shop to anyone. I've absolutely loved it. I know I will miss it but it's time to move on for me," she said.

Her warmth and friendliness have also made her gain some loyal customers – whom she said, had started to frequent the Middlewood Road chain in Hillsborough after learning that she was transferred there.

"When I fist started down the Bradfield road, a lot of customers from there started to come here instead.”

Richard, 52, said Ethel has been a "fantastic" employee and was well liked by all staff.

"We are very sad to see her go. We are trying to make her stay for another 20 years – it's possible, she can do it," he laughed.

He said Ethel is one of their longest serving members of staff and the company has had a few employees who have been with them for over 20 and 30 years.

"But I'm the longest serving member at the moment. Going to get another 20 years out of me, I think," he joked.

Asked about her post retirement plans, Ethel said: "I have three children and six grandchildren.

"I cannot wait to spend time with my grandchildren and enjoy summer. I love gardening too so i really look forward to that."

Sheffield-based Beres is due to open its 13th store on Ecclesall Road in a few months’ time.

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