HE has been a fixture at a Hampshire shopping mecca for nearly a quarter of a century.

But after 23 years at Hedge End Retail Park, John Smith has heard the tills ringing for the last time.

The site manager has been a familiar face around the Tollbar Way-based shopping area since the early 1990s.

But he is finally retiring and was joined by colleagues who all wanted to wish him a fond farewell.

They all gathered at the giant Sainsbury’s supermarket for a special presentation.

Stewart Kybert has been lined up as his successor.