DRIVER Dennis Tyerman has reached a remarkable milestone – after clocking up half-a-century of service with the same company.

After 50 years behind the wheel he has become the longest serving member of staff at Stokesley-based Armstrong Richardson – itself one of the oldest companies of its kind in the UK.

And since beginning his first shift for the family-run pet and equestrian wholesalers in 1966, the 70-year-old has covered more than 3,750,000 miles – the equivalent to driving around the world 150 times.

When he drove a wagon out of the depot for the first time Tom Jones was at Number One with the Green Green Grass of Home - an appropriate song given that he was often many miles from home, making deliveries across the UK.

The world was also a different place - with the the average cost of a new car about £950 and a gallon of petrol costing 5s 6d - the equivalent of 26p.

The father-of-two officially retired when he was 65, but continues to work part-time for the company - although these days he drives a delivery van instead of a lorry.

Director Mark Jones said: “Fifty years with one company is a fantastic achievement and it is testament to the family atmosphere and great working environment we offer at Armstrong Richardson.

“A large number of the team have been here for many years and as a local family and local employer it’s something we take great pride in.”

Dennis himself however is laid-back about his 50 years on the road.

“I’m just really pleased to have been here as long as I have and to still be part of the team,”he said.

The company, founded in 1925, is owned by the Jones family and employs more than 250 people.