After four decades of selling newspapers shopkeeper Vi Peters has hit the headlines on her retirement.

The 82-year-old now plans to take a well-earned break after 38 years behind the counter of Newspaper Kiosk in Pier Gap, Clacton.

"I really have enjoyed every minute of it and will miss my customers very much," she said. "I've made some good friends over the years and always remember the lovely holidaymakers who come back each year.

"Staff from the pier and amusements have also been good to me and I'd like to thank them for being so supportive."

Mrs Peters, of Brighton Road, Holland-on-Sea, first started working at the Kiosk way back in 1960 after a spell waitressing in a seafront cafe.

Ten years later she was given the opportunity to become leaseholder.

"I've seen plenty of changes in that time but the town has always retained its friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

"The only instance when I haven't felt at ease was when the Mods and Rockers invaded Clacton in 1963. I remember watching the fighting unfold and seeing policemen's helmets being thrown across the road.

"Losing Butlins, which attracted more than 6,000 visitors a week, was a huge blow but as long as there's sunshine people will come to Clacton.

"In fact the only thing she will miss is the early starts. Working every day from 7.15am to 6pm is a punishing schedule for even the most energetic of souls, let alone somebody with five grandchildren and two great- grandchildren.

Having summers free will give her time to visit them all and dates for a deserved holiday have already been pencilled into next year's diaries.

"The plan is to rest as much as I possibly can. I wouldn't swap my time in the kiosk for anything but I realise the time is now right to call time."

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