IN NEARLY four decades, he has shovelled seven million tonnes of sand.

Mechanical shovel driver George Nicholas has helped build some of Southampton's most famous landmarks including the city's Itchen Bridge, WestQuay shopping centre and Saints' St Mary's stadium.

Now, after 39 years at the controls of his machine, George, 65, is hanging up his hard hat for retirement.

George's workmates at Solent Aggregates in Marine Parade Southampton threw a party to mark his 39 years with the firm.

George, of Lordswood, began work with the firm as a labourer in 1967.

But after a few months, he began driving the digger and has kept the same job ever since.

George will be taking a month off after he officially retires today. He is then going on a two-week holiday with his wife Sandra to Cyprus.

However, he is not giving up his job completely as he is being retained as a stand-by digger driver for the firm.

He added: "I am part of the furniture."

Manager Barry Bowman said: "He is brilliant to work with. He is a top man and will be sadly missed."