A married couple who devoted 35 years to delivering the Halstead Gazette have celebrated their retirement.

John Day, 62 and his wife Sue, 60, of Oak Road, Pebmarsh, started AJ & SA Day Newsagents in 1979.

They sorted the papers in their shed and delivered them to Twinstead, Colne Engaine, Alphamstone, Wickham St. Paul, Lamarsh, Pebmarsh, Little Maplestead and Great Maplestead.

Mr Day, who is also a part-time school bus driver for Hedingham school, said he would miss his loyal customers.

He said: “The people were the best thing about the job. When you’ve got your own little business you get to know everyone.

“I’ve sold the Halstead Gazette all my life. I’ve only had two days off this year and have worked seven days a week for 15 years."

Mrs Day said the couple had an emotional send-off at the King’s Head pub in Pebmarsh on Sunday, arranged by their daughter Vicky Day and family friend Victoria Gammons.

Ex-paperboys came to celebrate at the pub as a surprise for the pair.

Mr and Mrs Day have passed their business on to a new owner and all papers will continue to be delivered.