A LONG-SERVING shop worker has raised a glass after a receiving an award for 40 years of service.

Barbara Pearson, 64, began her career at Marks & Spencer Darlington when she was 24.

Forty years on, she is celebrating her position as one of the longest serving employees at the well-known retailer.

She celebrated with a reception of champagne and canapés at the company's London headquarters with her husband, Michael.

She said: “My family are extremely proud of me and it’s been fantastic celebrating 40 years with the company. I’m still thoroughly enjoying myself.”

Mrs Pearson has previously worked in the womenswear and stock departments which she found very enjoyable. She now works as a sales assistant in the food hall and knows the store like the back of her hand.

The Darlington store has seen a lot of changes over the years and Mrs Pearson has been along for the ride.

She added: “The fashions and even uniforms have changed massively over the decades

“I loved experimenting with the fun and bright trends in the 70s and 80s and it’s fantastic to see some of these styles return with a contemporary twist.”

Mrs Pearson said she has felt well supported by her employers throughout her career and they have seen her through having a family and changing to working part-time.

She said: “I now work three mornings a week. I’ve loved working for M&S so much that many of my friends have joined the company as a result

“I absolutely love working at the Darlington store, we are like one big family.”