THE longest running independent trader in Stourport is retiring after more than 30 years in the town.

Pete’s Prints, based in Bridge Street, will cease trading at the end of the year as 71-year-old Pete Roberts brings down the shutters on his 36-year-old business.

The father-of-two said it was time for him to put his feet up and spend more time with his four grandchildren.

But the community stalwart will still be a prominent figure in the town as he continues to organise the Christmas Lights switch-on and Three Kings parade, as well as continuing his work with Stourport Rotary.

Mr Roberts said: “I’m 71 now and you do start asking ‘how long can you go on?’

“I’ve seen so many changes in the town and it has been a delight and an honour to work in this wonderful town.

“I opened the shop in 1982 and I’m proud to have been here for all these years and becoming the longest running independent trader left in the town.

“But it’s time to stop and spend more time with my family and to enjoy other things in life a bit more.

“I will still continue my community work though and am looking forward to helping put on the biggest Christmas Lights Switch on and Three Kings Parade yet.”

Mr Roberts said he is now having a big sale of his stock, including more than a thousand fancy dress costumes, before he closes for the last time at the end of December.