A MUSIC shop director who has helped hundreds of people get to grips with the great composers is retiring after nearly 45 years.

Classical music fanatic Ken Stabler, 64, joined Banks Music, in York, as a shop assistant in 1958 after completing his National Service.

He quickly became director of the store's classical section, selling sheet music to customers all over the world by composers from Mozart to Mahler.

The business, which is almost 250 years old, has won a string of national awards.

Mr Stabler, whose favourite composers include Rachmaninov, Beethoven and Mozart, told the Evening Press: "I've had a lot of pleasure working here over the years. I'm very fortunate to have combined my passion with my job.

"I'm going to really miss my colleagues and regular customers."

Mr Stabler, who lives in Heworth, has served famous figures including world-renowned pianist Claudio Arrau, xylophone-playing astrologer Patrick Moore and former Prime Minister Ted Heath.

He said: "I will be spending a few days in Paris and will then decide what I'm going to do. I'm thinking of maybe doing some voluntary work."

Owner Judith Thorpe said: "Ken is part of the establishment here - he has a vast knowledge."

"People have been coming to the shop in their droves to say goodbye which is very touching.

"He will be sorely missed."

Updated: 11:36 Thursday, March 07, 2002