A SPECIAL birthday celebration was held in a Frodsham charity shop after Halton Haven Hospice’s longest-serving volunteer turned 80.

Tireless volunteer Ken Nickson, of Ashley Court, Chapelfields, Frodsham, started working at Halton Haven Hospice’s first charity shop in 1982.

He said: “It was great, I had a good day.

“I have enjoyed every minute of working here at the Hospice’s Charity shop and having recently moved to the Frodsham store to be closer to home I hope to stay here for many more years.

“I think it keeps me going, although I’m not all that near to keeping going now.

“I have worked in all the charity shops.

“I have met some wonderful people along the way, from customers to employees and many volunteers who will be friends for a very long time to come.

“My wife and I retired on the same day and we both started at the hospice together.

“After a short stint in Australia I came back to work for Halton Haven, with a welcome return.”

Ken, who used to work for chemical giant ICI joined Halton Haven with his late wife 27 years ago.

Since retiring he has worked as a chauffeur and HGV driver before settling as a volunteer in the Frodsham Charity Shop.

Paula Widdas, head of fundraising at the hospice, said: “I have known Ken for four years and during that time he has been a hard working, loyal and committed volunteer.

“It has been a pleasure to know and work with Ken and on behalf of all the staff and volunteers I would like to wish Ken a very happy birthday.”