Julie Wittred knew what she wanted to do for a job when she was 10. Today she retired after almost 50 years working for the same store.

Eastern Daily Press: Julie Wittred's retirement from Boots in King's Lynn. Photo: Ian BurtJulie Wittred's retirement from Boots in King's Lynn. Photo: Ian Burt (Image: Archant)

Mrs Wittred, now 64, joined Boots in King's Lynn as a consultant selling the Number 7 make-up brand when she was 15.

'I always wanted to work for Boots since I was 10 years old,' she said. 'I find the job amazing, I've loved every day. I'm proud and honoured to have worked for such a fantastic company.'

More than 50 present and past colleagues gathered in the canteen above the High Street store for Mrs Wittred's send-off. In 49 years, she rose from selling cosmetics to being the branch's assistant manager.

'To me, Julie is Boots,' said store manager Sarah Haynes. 'She's very passionate, she's energetic, she cares. This is like her second family here.' Mrs Wittred, from South Wootton, was presented with flowers and bubbly to mark the occasion. She said: 'I'm going to have a rest for a bit and spend a lot more time with my three grand-children.'