Devon Waitrose worker, 94, has no plans to retire

A man who started a job at Waitrose at the age of 80 is still working there aged 94 – and said he has no plans to retire.

John Shipton has been described as a “local legend” and a “national treasure” by colleagues at the Exeter branch of the supermarket.

He said he had been asked many times about the prospect of retirement but had no plans to give up.

“At first I thought I would probably stop at 95, but the most important thing is that I can still climb the stairs to the canteen because that is vital,” he said.

Mr Shipton has had many jobs in his long working life. He served in the army before working in electronics, has been a cabinet maker, restored antique furniture, maintained swimming pools and programmed computers.

But he said his job at Waitrose did not feel like work.

“I come here to play with my customers; the relationships with the customers are beautiful,” said Mr Shipton.

Ros McConnachie, deputy branch manager for Waitrose, Exeter, said Mr Shipton was brilliant with all customers: “Young and old, he will talk to anyone; he is sort of a national treasure for us in the branch.”

Customer Dana added: “John is an amazing man, he teaches us all what it is to be human.”

John said the secret to a good life was having fun and working in a job you loved.

He said: “You just have to find what you are passionate about, and do that”.