When Susan Irving joined Thomas Armstong Group as an office junior at 15, she had no idea that she would still be there at 61.

But Mrs Irving, who is from High Brigham, did stay and worked her way through the ranks.

She retired as group finance controller just before the company closed for Christmas two weeks ago.

She joined Thomas Armstrong Construction in April 1971 when the business was still based in Cockermouth.

She has thoroughly enjoyed her time with Thomas Armstrong and has seen the company grow and develop over the years.

She said: “I have seen quite a few changes, including the move to Flimby and the setting up of the electrical and plumbing divisions.”

Group chief executive Keith Denham said: “Susan has been an absolute credit to the firm throughout her career at Thomas Armstrong.

“Her commitment and dedication over the years has been exemplary. She has been a pleasure to work with and we thank her for all her hard work and wish her and her husband well in her retirement.”

Susan said she was looking forward to her retirement.

She said last week that she still felt she was on holiday as the firm closed down over Christmas and New Year.

She added: “I will realise I am retired when everyone else goes back to work.

“I have loved working there and will miss the people but think I will enjoy being retired.”

She said she was looking forward to spending time with her husband, Kevin.

“We enjoy walking so might be motivated to do more of that.

“I also enjoy gardening and will now have the time to do some baking.

“But first I am just going to relax and do absolutely nothing.”

She said it would be quite pleasing not to have to plan anything around work but to just do what she wanted when she wanted.