A well-respected butcher who’s been working in Abbots Langley for nearly 40 years has taken his apron off for the last time, with huge community support helping his transition into retirement.
Simon East, of Simon East Butchers, High Street, handed his business over to a new team, which includes his brother and one of his two daughters, having served the community for 39 years.
His retirement announcement on Facebook received hundreds of likes, affirming the special relationship the butcher formed with the community and his customers.
Simon, 60, said: “The response was lovely, and everyone has been very supportive. Without our loyal customers we’d really have nothing – they’ve always been behind me and the team.
“They’re the reason you keep smiling day after day when you’re working. You have to have that positive attitude and keep a frown off your face – that’s what brings customers back really. It’s not just the products, it’s being friendly.
On retirement, Simon added: “It was a hard decision to make but one that, in the end, was best for me. I was reluctant initially, but by the end I knew I’d had enough. I now have a bit more time to exercise and stay healthy, as well as more time to see my grandkids, which is always a good thing.
“I am going to miss the customers, because I’ve formed relationships with a lot of them over the years. But I want to say a massive thank you to all of them and I hope to see them around.”
Picture courtesy of Mike Quinton
0 Comments