A LOYAL employee is hanging up his secateurs after more than 50 years at nursery RV Roger Ltd in Pickering.

John Fletcher, known as Jessie by his colleagues and customers, began work in July 1961 at the Whitby Road nursery.

In the 1980s, he moved to the Malton Road nursery, taking responsibility for the firm’s heather department, and later went on to work in the mail order side of the business, as well as looking after vegetable plant production and the maintenance of container-grown roses.

At other times, John could be seen manning the market stall at Helmsley.

Born in Pickering, John recently celebrated his 65th birthday and ruby wedding with his wife, Christine, whom he met when she was working in Roger’s seed and flower shop during the 1960s.

Jonathan Piercy, who worked with John for 25 years, said he would be missed, although they expected him to visit.