THE Observer bade a fond farewell to two longstanding members of its production staff last week.
Scanner operator Ray Oak and type-setter Ruth Williams both retired on the same day after over 45 years combined service to the 'paper.
To mark the occasion, Ray's colleagues presented him with a camera to enable him to pursue his hobby of photography, while Ruth received a garden bench... which was immediately put to good use for the above photograph!
Among those attending the presentation were Mr. Tom McGowran, chief executive of Tindle Newspapers - the Observer's parent group - and area manager, Mr. Bernard Mew.
They are seen here along with Ray and Ruth (seated) and their Observer colleagues.