TOYS R Us workers from years gone by gathered for a farewell reunion in the wake of the retailer’s demise.

Former supervisor Ray Sivyour, who worked for the chain for 15 years, organised the gathering outside the store on Western Esplanade, Southampton.

The group of 30 then headed to The Vestry on Commercial Road for farewell drinks.

Toys R Us branches across the UK have shut down, following the chain’s collapse into administration.

Ray, of Millbrook Road East, said the meeting celebrated the store’s history and was an opportunity for employees to catch up. He added: “I remember as a child going to the games aisle and sliding around.

“No child wants to go to Argos and look through a catalogue, it doesn’t give them the same magic that we gave.”

Michael Collett, of Romsey Road, Shirley, worked at the store for 11 years. He said: “When it was announced that Southampton was closing I was gutted because it’s not just a workplace, it’s a place that I went to as a child.

“I have a lot of fond memories and have made lifelong friends.”