WHEN York fishmonger Robin Broadhead first started work on his market stall as a teenager the Second World War had just ended and rationing was still in place.

Now aged 70, Robin, of Leeman Road, is hanging up his apron at the stall he has run for more than 55 years.

He will be serving his customers for the last time this weekend.

As for his plans for retirement – he wants to spend more time fishing!

He said: “This Saturday will be my last day, after 50-odd years.

“I’m disappointed in one respect, because I’ll miss all the friends and customers I’ve met over the years.

“But I’m looking forward to an easier life.”

Robin has owned his fish stall since 1962, after working there part-time from the age of 13, and has only spent one period away from the market, when he took a year-long break to work as an apprentice moulder.

He said: “I did a year, but working indoors just wasn’t for me so I returned to the market, where I have been ever since.”

Since he took over the stall, Robin has only taken seven weeks’ holiday.

But he now plans to use his new-found free time relaxing and fishing.

He has also planned a trip to Australia to see his brother.

He said: “I don’t usually catch my own fish for the stall, but I’m a keen trout fisherman, and I’m looking forward to having some time to myself at the various reservoirs. The council hasn’t told me if anyone is taking over the stall, and I don’t know whether it will continue to be a fish stall. If it is, then of course I’ll buy my fish there.”

Robin said he did not have any advice for whoever may take over his stall, but he hoped somebody would do so. He said: “I’d like to thank all my customers, old and new, because if it wasn’t for them the business wouldn’t be what it is.”