He's off, but he's not bitter! 

Arkell's finance director retires after 34 years

 

Calling time: Ray Fisher rings the final bell

If someone told you they'd spent a third of a century in a brewery, you'd probably be a bit concerned.

 

But for Arkell's finance 

director, Ray Fisher, today was a momentous occasion.

 

After 34 years of hard work and dedication, he rang time 

on his career with the Swindon-based brewery.

 

And boy did they give him a good send-off!

 

Four generations of the Arkell family were on hand to wave him off, and of course, the beer was flowing.

 

James Arkell said: "Ray came to work at Arkells in 1974, first as accountant, then as company secretary, although it's such a long time ago none of us can really remember.

 

"What is important, however, is that he was the first non-Arkell family member to become a full member of the Board because we thought so much of him - and still do."

 

Cheers for all the hard work!: James Arkell (right) offers his thanks to Ray Fisher as he retires after 34 years with the brewery

 

62-year-old Ray said: "It's been an absolutely great career and wonderful fun - it is simply oner of the best jobs to have as an accountant - because of course I've had to regularly sample the product!

 

"Whilst 34 years seems a very long time, it's certainly not unusual at Arkell's where if you're lucky enough to work here, you do tend to stay."

 

Family affair: James Arkell (far right) and son George (far left) with Ray Fisher (centre), Ray's wife Christine, and their children

 

Aside from Arkell's, Ray is involved in a lot of charity work, was Mayor of Swindon in 2005, and was recently re-elected as councillor for Stratton ward.

 

Retiring a few years early, Ray is looking forward to spending time with his wife Christine, four children, and three grandchildren - and plans to have a few pints of 3B in celebration.