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A Clare woman has just completed a quarter of a century working for the former Atterton and Ellis factory in Haverhill, now Bernhard and Company.

Tina Humphrey has just notched up 25 years with the grinder manufacturers, and executive chairman Stephen Bernhard presented her with a watch at a celebration gathering at the factory.

At 17 she went to work for Atterton and Ellis as a receptionist, latterly working for the then managing director, David Smith as his secretary, inputting sales orders and producing invoices for customers.

Tina has seen many changes over the years. The shop and mower repair shop closed. Stephen Bernhard bought the business to concentrate solely on mower grinding machinery, and the staff went from a handful to a team spread across the world.

Last year the company moved from their original site to their new purpose-built factory space in Haverhill.

Tina said, “When I was 21 I left the company for a few months to go travelling with a friend. When I got back I joined my father, John Humphrey, who was company director and secretary, in the accounts department.

Stephen Bernhard suggested that I attend the local college to get an accounting qualification, so after three years studying I became AAT qualified. It was the best thing I could have done.”

Mr Bernhard said: “I've known Tina since she was a very young girl and was delighted when she took over some of the accounting functions to help her father.

"Soon after, Tina completed several accountancy professional courses and became a key member of our team. She has always been a ray of sunshine in our business.

"She is always bright, positive and encouraging and has amazing loyalty for the business. It's a joy having Tina about the place where, despite 25 years of loyal service, she still exudes that lovely smile and enthusiastic presence. She is one of five people who have been with us for 25 years or more.”