A HEYBRIDGE company have given a permanent job to a pensioner who has been working with them on a temporary basis for the last year.

Jozef de Bie, 81, has been with Forbidden Planet International, in Heybridge since March 2016 but is now a permanent employee.

Jozef, from Witham, impressed the company with his hard work, reliability and dedication since joining.

Originally from Holland, Jozef came to the UK when he was 18 and has spent the last six years as a temporary worker for HR GO Recruitment, who placed him with Forbidden Planet.

On getting full-time employment with the specialist chain selling cult sci-fi books, comics and collectibles, he said: “It is brilliant for people of my age to be offered a permanent job. I’m grateful to Forbidden Planet International for giving me this opportunity. I love working and couldn’t just sit in the house all day.

“Working beyond retirement age keeps you young. If you feel fit and healthy enough, why not keep doing it? I’d like to carry on as long as I can.”

Formerly a manager in the fertiliser industry, Jozef is now looking forward to celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary with wife Janet in Paris in March.

Anita Wakeman, recruitment consultant for HR GO, said: “Jozef is still as motivated and joyful as a lad of 20. He has never refused work, never had a day off sick, and is reliable and hardworking.

“It has been an absolute pleasure knowing him for all these years and I am pleased he has got the chance at Forbidden Planet International.”

In a message to Jozef, Jack Parkinson, chairman of HR GO Recruitment, said: “You have been on active assignment with many of our clients, providing excellent service every time. Whilst we will miss one of our most loyal temporary workers, this is a fantastic achievement that is well deserved. Thank you for your hard work commitment and loyalty. Our loss is definitely Forbidden Planet’s gain”