HEALTH care assistant Anne Smith has become a familiar face behind the Boots counter as she marks a career spanning four decades.

Anne Smith celebrated her 40th anniversary of working for Boots on April 6 in a career that began as a sales assistant in the Manchester branch in 1965. After nine years, she moved briefly to the Bury branch before taking up residence in the Radcliffe store, in Blackburn Street, 30 years ago.

Anne, who is now health care assistant, said: "I enjoy meeting different people every day and the staff are superb. There is nothing really I don't enjoy and I accept whatever is thrown at me and get on with the job!"

Anne (57) celebrated the anniversary with a meal out in her hometown of Bamford with 17 work colleagues and is currently deciding which gift to choose from the company,

"I haven't made my mind up yet but there is plenty to choose from, like a romantic weekend away for two or a hot air balloon ride. So I'm sure I'll pick something nice!"