ONE of a Keighley motorbike dealer’s longest-serving employees has retired.

Phil Jarvis, known affectionately to his colleagues as Swoop, has called it a day after 43 years at Colin Appleyard Ltd.

He joined the company’s bike shop in 1973, as the first apprentice motorcycle mechanic, and went on to become a master technician.

“My whole working life has been a labour of love,” said Mr Jarvis.

“Bikes have always been my passion, so consequently work has always been a pleasure.

“Along the way I have made some fantastic friends, not just amongst my workmates, but also customers.

“There’s a great team spirit at Appleyard’s.”

Managing director, Robin Appleyard, pays tribute.

“Phil has been a loyal colleague who has committed almost his whole career to Colin Appleyard Motorcycles,” he said.

“That commitment and dedication has made a real contribution to the success of the company.”