A WELL-KNOWN farming sales rep is retiring after nearly 50 years of service.

Mole Country Stores is set to bid a fond farewell to Tom Anderson following his decision to retire after decades serving farmers around the county.

The 66-year-old started as an apprentice agricultural engineer at the age of 15 at the Piercebridge depot, where he worked as a fitter before heading out on the road to service machinery on farms before a spell away from the business.

He then headed back to Farmway to work as a sales rep and since 1994, has been supporting several farming businesses in the region – some for more than 20 years.

“I feel they’re not just my customers, but my friends,” Mr Anderson said.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with farmers - I like to get involved with what they do on farm. It’s been my life.”

Mr Anderson said he is now looking forward to working on his 30 acre small holding and continuing to buy and sell cattle.

He added: “It’s been a hard decision, but I’m 67 this year and I thought, now is the time.

“I’ve got my farm which is my hobby and we’ve got a caravan so we can have a few weekend trips away to the Lake District and Yorkshire.

“I’d like to thank all my customers for the business they’ve put my way and how they’ve supported me in Farmway and Mole Country Stores over the last 21 years.”