A Glasswells employee – who started as a Saturday boy at the home furnishing store – is retiring after 50 years of service at the family company.

East Anglian Daily Times: Richard Ball, who is retiring from Glasswells after 50 years Picture: GLASSWELLSRichard Ball, who is retiring from Glasswells after 50 years Picture: GLASSWELLS (Image: Archant)

Richard Ball, 65, has reflected on his five decades at the renowned Bury St Edmunds company – which has included more than 14 different roles in eight different stores.

After joining Glasswells straight from school at the company’s original shop in Brentgovel Street in 1968, Richard has managed stores across the region including Saffron Walden, Sudbury and Norwich.

He was invited to join the board of directors in 2012.

As he prepares to leave his position as buying director tomorrow, Richard said: “I think the time is right to retire, but I will be leaving with mixed feelings as I have loved my time at Glasswells. It doesn’t seem that long.

East Anglian Daily Times: Richard Ball, who is retiring after 50 years with Glasswells Picture: MICHAEL STEWARDRichard Ball, who is retiring after 50 years with Glasswells Picture: MICHAEL STEWARD (Image: Archant)

“I remember leaving school in Bury on the Friday afternoon and then starting full time at Glasswells the next day, after seeing a job advert.

“It has always been a family business with strong family values. What has never changed is the relationship and loyalty we have built with customers.”

“Paul Glasswell is actively involved in the running of the business, as was his father Leslie, and the fact they care so much is one reason why it has been a great place to work.”

Richard said he is hoping to visit Portman Road more often to see his team Ipswich Town in action following retirement.

East Anglian Daily Times: An early photo of Richard Ball Picture: GLASSWELLSAn early photo of Richard Ball Picture: GLASSWELLS (Image: Archant)

“I’m looking to do all the things that I haven’t been able to do,” he said. “I’m hoping to see Ipswich play more as I’ve always worked Saturdays.

“I’ll miss friends and colleagues but also all the people from the trade that I’ve met in the job.”

Paying tribute to Richard, Paul Glasswell, managing director, said: “Richard’s adaptability has played such a big part in the success of Glasswells.

“He has always shown great willingness to take on a new role, even if it might have been alien to him in the first place. He has then used all his experience to become an expert in that role.

East Anglian Daily Times: Richard Ball accepting his 40-year award in 2008 Picture: GLASSWELLSRichard Ball accepting his 40-year award in 2008 Picture: GLASSWELLS (Image: Archant)

“He has gained an awful lot of respect over the years from his colleagues and we wish him all the best in his retirement.”