FOUR Fenland-based members of staff with Anglia Co-operative, who have clocked up almost 140 years of service, have been honoured at a special reception.

Funeral assistant Derek Rowlett, 68, from March has worked for nearly 53 and a half years starting at Brewins Funeral Home in 1958 before joining Anglia Co-op in 2001.

Fenland Funerals and Brewins colleague John Gelder, 58, who has nearly 43 years under his belt, joined Anglia Co-op in the same year.

Along with Whittlesey Funerals director Brian Glazebrook, 59, they received gift vouchers and certificates from chief executive John Chillcott and chairman of the board Harry Whitelock.

Also to be rewarded was 48-year-old Andy Ayres with more than 21 years of service, The Badgeney Road Co-op manager has worked for Rainbow foodstores in March, Ramsey and St Neots before his current role.

Mr Chillcott said: “It was my privilege to present the awards and spend time chatting over lunch with colleagues who have made a such great contribution to the Society over many years.

“Several of the Society’s directors also attended, reflecting the importance Anglia Co-operative places on recognising people’s dedication to the business.”