A PHARMACIST is going back to the classroom after 25 years running his own business.

David Persaud moved to Dovercourt and opened Oakley Pharmacy in Oakley Road after studying for five years at university.

But due to personal reasons he has decided to sell up and go back into education.

He said: “I’m going to do a post graduate in clinical pharmacy then see where it takes me.

“I lived in Milton Keynes and I put my life savings into this - when I moved I had £6 left in the bank. It was a very tough first three years but it’s been wonderful living here - everyone has accepted me into the community.

“I’ve seen families and children and their children grow up, it’s quite interesting.

“But it has been challenging at times as there have been constant changes with the NHS, we do a lot of things that used to be done by doctors and nurses.” Mr Persaud said he has enjoyed life in the town, but will be using his free time to spend more time with family, including his ill father.

He added: “I grew up in a tower block so it’s lovely to live here where there is beautiful countryside and the beautiful seaside.”

New owners Ben and Ivy Tuffour are expected to take over in the next few weeks.