A STALWART worker has retired after more than half a century with the same Keighley company.

Mick Bugeja joined the now NSF Controls Ltd, based at Ingrow Bridge Works, in 1970.

The maintenance manager said he had witnessed many highs and some lows over the decades.

"There have been plenty of good times – but some bad too," said Mick.

"I remember the coal mining strikes, when we had just a few hours at a weekend to work as that was the only time we could have the lights on. That was a bad time here, but I will definitely remember all the good and will certainly miss all the staff. 'Thank you' to everyone."

The company has paid tribute.

A spokesperson says: "We're incredibly grateful for Mick's work over the years.

"He has seen us through mixed times. During strikes of the 70s and 80s our power usage was rationed. NSF had power on just Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, which affected staff and the company. Mick recalls working by lamplight on days when there was no power available!

"Throughout the 1980s NSF was a large employer in the Keighley area, under its parent company Lucas.

"Our site – originally purchased in 1946 – has changed an incredible amount over the years, much of which Mick has witnessed and maintained with a few distinct colleagues.

"A 1997 management buy-out established the NSF Controls Ltd of today.

"Mick has now taken the retirement he deserves to spend more time with his loved ones and take up new hobbies – including painting.

"We wish him good luck. He will be missed at NSF Controls."

The firm is acclaimed as a leading UK designer and manufacturer of solenoids and switches.

Its products are used globally across a wide range of applications, including defence and security, the automotive industry, utilities and in medical and leisure functions.

NSF has been behind a number of innovations, from better-performing chargers for mobile phones to a revolutionary control switch for the guitar market.

* The company has staged its annual Christmas raffle in aid of Manorlands, raising £890 for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Over the years nearly £10,000 has now been coined-in, through ticket sales and match funding from the company.

"We have been supported by lots of amazing local businesses offering products and services to boost the raffle and we are extremely grateful," said the spokesperson.