A century-old Sidmouth butcher’s shop has toasted John Richards, who has been selecting the best cuts for its customers for 50 years.

Sidmouth Herald: Stewart Hayman with John Richards as they marked his 50th year at Hayman's ButchersStewart Hayman with John Richards as they marked his 50th year at Hayman's Butchers (Image: Archant)

Hayman’s Butchers treated him to a buffet and drinks evening at the nearby 1922 club with around 50 friends and past and present members of staff.

The business has been in Stewart Hayman’s family for four generations.

He said: “John’s always been reliable – you could probably count on your hands the number of days he’s been off. He’s very dedicated.”

John, a contemporary of Stewart’s at Sidmouth College, started at the butcher’s shop aged 16 and trained locally.

Sidmouth Herald: Hayman's butchers. Ref shs 6503-46-15TI. Picture: Terry IfeHayman's butchers. Ref shs 6503-46-15TI. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

Now 66, the Peaslands Road resident is its longest-serving member of staff but not the eldest – several of his colleagues are in their sixties and staying on, despite being old enough to retire.

“He’s down to four days but he has no plans to retire just yet,” said Stewart. “He’s been serving some of these people all of his life – it’s the place to be.”

The shop celebrated its centenary in 2007 with a street party and the staff resolved to commemorate other important milestones.