A beloved shop assistant who started as a Saturday girl aged just 15 has retired after an incredible 56 years at Pan Stores.
An emotional farewell marked the end of an era at the Newport convenience store today (Wednesday) as Carol completed her final shift, bringing to a close a remarkable career that made her one of the best-known faces in the local community.
Carol joined Pan Stores in 1969 after her father helped her secure a Saturday job. What began as weekend work for a 15-year-old turned into a lifetime of service that saw Pan Stores come into the ownership of her family, before eventually being sold on, with Carol remaining a familiar face throughout.
Over more than 5 decades behind the counter, Carol served generations of customers, watching children grow up, return with families of their own and, in many cases, bring in their grandchildren.
Pan Stores manager Andy Morris has said there is no one quite like Carol:
“She is Pan Stores. She has seen hundreds of people come and go.
“She comes in early to make everyone a cup of tea. She is loyal and kind and never has a bad word to say about anyone. Her hair is always immaculate.”
Her impact extended beyond customers, touching generations of colleagues as well.
Debbie Symonds, who worked alongside Carol, said:
“My mum worked with her, as did my daughter. That’s three generations of my family.
“She’s a marvellous lady.”
The store also paid tribute to Carol on social media, saying:
“Today is going to be a very sad day for us. Our beautiful Carol is retiring. It’s her last day after 56 years of working at Pan Stores.
“She has seen families grow up, have children of their own, then grandchildren.
“We are all going to miss her so much. Such a dedicated, loyal, beautiful, kind lady.
“Now go and enjoy your retirement.
“Miss you already.”
Enjoy your well earned retirement.
Can’t beat being retired and loving it.