AN old face will be disappearing from a well-known Bury firm of insurance brokers and investment consultants come the New Year.

For senior partner Chris Ernhill is retiring from Moscrop Robinson & Chadwick at the end of the month after 42 years with the St Mary's Place-based company.

Chris (62), who has concentrated on the investment side of the business, joined Moscrops in 1960 and became a partner in 1977. He previously worked for the Midland Bank and Commercial Union and initially had a part-time job as a bookie's runner.

Married to Kath, the couple have four children. Chris has lived all his married life in Summerseat and is a keen golfer, a member of both Walmersley and Manchester golf clubs.

He is a former member and past chairman of Radcliffe Round Table and a present member of the Radcliffe 41 club.

Chris is known by his colleagues as an inveterate practical joker and both he and his sense of humour will be missed when he retires.