FUNERAL director AB Walker & Son has said farewell to loyal employee Gordon Kimble, who retires after 31 years service.

Gordon joined the family-owned business in 1976 and over the years he has helped three generations of the Walker family prepare and bear thousands of coffins.

His humour and colourful language made him a popular character among colleagues and clients alike.

The 65-year-old from Whitley decided to hang up his black coat in order to spend more time gardening with his wife Mary.

His loyal service was celebrated with a staff party held at the firm’s head office in Eldon Road on Tuesday, October 30.

In a short speech of thanks, Mr Kimble said: “Working for a family business has given me the benefit of having two families, which given our job has been a privilege and a comfort.”

Senior director David Walker said: “He was a real character. He was a hard worker and always gave his best for the clients and the firm.

“He will be sorely missed.”