There is cause for celebration at a bingo club in Ipswich this week, as one of its colleagues marks 40 years of service to the long-loved game.

East Anglian Daily Times: The team help Janet Austin celebrate four decades at the bingo club. Picture: HAVAS PR MANCHESTERThe team help Janet Austin celebrate four decades at the bingo club. Picture: HAVAS PR MANCHESTER (Image: Archant)

Janet Austin started working at Mecca Ipswich in September 1977, when she was 34-years-old.

She originally joined the business as a bookseller, checking bingo claims to see if they were valid.

Decades on and Ms Austin is still a firm favourite with customers, now working front of house.

She said: “I’ve always loved working at Mecca and really enjoy meeting new people – I certainly can’t imagine working anywhere else. The time has flown by and I have no plans to retire anytime soon.”

Ms Austin also said she has seen a big change in bingo over the years, with new technology such as tablets and electronic bingo calling systems being introduced to the game.

Ali Strickland, manager, added: “Janet is extremely popular with customers and colleagues alike and it’s hard to imagine Mecca Ipswich without her.

“She’s been an integral part of the business as bingo has transformed itself in the 21st century and I’d like to thank her on behalf of everyone for all of her hard work.”