STALWART York tailor Jim Boyes has received a special delivery - thanks to the Evening Press.

His former delivery boy, who he has not laid eyes on for 58 years, turned up at Andersons menswear shop after reading about his amazing work record.

The Evening Press reported that Jim had clocked up 75 years at the store, but had no intention of retiring despite being 88-years-old.

Jim, who still works four days a week, received a telegram from the Queen Mother to mark the unique milestone.

Norman Denton, of Fifth Avenue, York, worked at Andersons as a part-time delivery boy in 1943, aged ten, before being told by the authorities he was too young.

"I recognised Jim in the press photograph and couldn't believe he was still working," said Norman, "I've got very fond memories and just had to go and see him."

Norman, who was paid about half-a-crown for working Saturdays and weekday evenings after school, was taken on by Jim as his mother worked at Andersons as a cleaner.

"Jim was a very good boss," he said.

"I used to deliver suits and shirts to customers on the bike I was fit as a butcher's dog.

"I looked very smart in my uniform and was very popular with the ladies."

Jim, who has been inundated with letters of congratulation, said: "I remember the smart uniforms and bicycles laden with packages."

Andersons, which is one of York's oldest shops, established in 1763, moved to Blake Street from Coney Street in 1969.

Norman, who trained as a joiner after school, added: "It's amazing Jim is still working."

Updated: 08:58 Wednesday, October 31, 2001