A KEIGHLEY optician is focussing on an easier life after clocking-up 40 years' service.

Graham Dickson, who works at Vision Express in the Airedale Shopping Centre, is going part-time.

The 59-year-old has been presented with a pin badge, at a special dinner in London, marking his four decades in the trade.

Mr Dickson, who lives at Oakworth, started work at Rayner's Optician and worked his way up to the manager post at Keighley before it became a Vision Express store last year.

He then stepped down from the role as he eyed up early semi-retirement.

Mr Dickson says he has seen many changes over the years, including the de-restriction of dispensing in 1989.

"At that stage a lot of new optical businesses set up but they didn't last and we're still here," he said.

"I have several customers who have always come to me and now we're seeing their children and even their children's children.

"When the voucher system was introduced in 1989 that had a massive impact, as suddenly not everyone was entitled to a free eye test. But we've survived and had to adapt and move with the times."

He has been congratulated by Airedale Shopping Centre manager, Steve Seymour, who added: "Many people will know Graham as he has treated them during the course of his long career.

"He has a wealth of experience in the world of eye care and it is good to hear that he will still be part of the team here at the centre."

And tribute is paid by Fiona Meller, the Vision Express branch manager.

"It's an amazing achievement to do 40 years in one job and Graham has that extra wealth of knowledge and experience that is just brilliant for us," she said.

"Listening to his stories of how things have changed is unbelievable too and he is really good at training."

Mr Dickson now plans to devote more time to riding his classic Triumph motorbike and his other interests, including playing the drums and fishing.

"I've got five grandchildren too so no doubt they'll be keeping me busy and I've got a house that I've neglected for years so there's a fair bit of DIY to catch up on!" he added.