Retirement beckons for Turriff man after 52-year career
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Christmas Eve has marked the end of an era for a Turriff man who has retired after a 52-year career.
Eric Masson (68) completed his last shift as a slaughterman at Morrisons Woodheads meat processing site at the town's Markethill Road just before the big day.
It was the culmination of a career that started on September 5, 1968, at the age of 15 and has seen many changes over the decades.
He said: "I first started with Buchan Meat, and then it was Kepak, Woodheads and finally Morrisons.
"I served my time as an apprentice, then I was charge hand and after that I have been a slaughterman.
"It has been a good place to work and that's why I have been here so long. It has been a rewarding career.
"Now that retirement has come, I will be sad to leave."
A small presentation was held at that site to mark the occasion, which was attended by some work colleagues and Mr Masson's wife Celia.
It featured photos of him through the years at his work and he was presented with gifts by department manager Gordon Taylor.
Mr Taylor said: "It is quite ironic he was my boss when I started and now I am his boss.
"We have always had a good relationship both ways.
"Eric will be greatly missed, he puts in a lot of input to help the younger members of staff.
"He has a lot of experience which you don't have the same now, as its a different job altogether."
Mr Masson will now have more free time to spend with his family. The couple have three sons – Scott, Wayne and Steve – seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
