An Ashby shop assistant has retired after 33 years serving customers at the same Market Street store.

Mary Conibear - known to regulars as 'Irish Mary' - completed her final day at Dean & Smedley.

The shop was called Owen Jones when she first started there in 1987.

But Mary has been there ever since and has been a familiar face as the cosmetic and perfumery counter.

She admitted it had been an emotional day as she said her final goodbyes.

"It's been a wonderful experience working here, I joined when it was Owen Jones, Robert and Liz Jones gave me my first part time job here and Dean & Smedley took over two years later," recalled Mary.

"I've had such lovely customers over the years and I work with such lovely people as well.

"It's been a very emotional day for me.

"They've all spoilt me rotten here, I've had some leaving gifts, flowers galore, drinks, champagne, I've got everything!"

Mary believes she is one of the longest serving employees to stay at one place in Ashby.

"I don't think there can be many more, although one of my colleagues did 27 years.

"For the generation that's here now, I'm like their mother or even grandmother!

"I've been working in the cosmetic and perfumery department which is how I started here.

"They always called this shop the little department store of Ashby."

Mary says she has her retirement days planned from now on.

"I like going for bike rides with my daughter Angela and I'll also be having some long walks," she said.

"I like gardening too, I shall keep occupied, I'll be able to come into the town and instead of rushing round, I can stop for a drink and have a look around the shops. I always seem to be in a hurry."