Colleagues line the aisles to wish Kirkcaldy store manager Stephen a happy retirement

Colleagues at our Kirkcaldy store lined the aisles to applaud popular store manager Stephen Gallagher and wish him a happy retirement after working for Asda for 43 years.

Photo: Fife Today / Fife Photo AgencyStephen, who's 59, began working at Asda after leaving school to take part in a Youth Training Scheme. He quickly rose through the ranks to become manager at a number of stores, including the Kirkton and Milton stores in Dundee, Coatbridge, Edinburgh Jewel, Livingston and Perth. He had two spells at our Kirkcaldy store.

"My send off was absolutely fantastic," said Stephen. "I didn't expect any of it. I got a lump in my throat when I came downstairs and saw everybody.

"And when I got to the end of the aisle my wife Lynn, children Stephen, Sharon and Natalie along with my grandchildren James, Justin, Joey, Lucy and Sofie were waiting for me. It was lovely."

Stephen, who is now hoping to do more cycling and golf in his retirement, said: "The biggest part of the job has been the people, as I've met so many wonderful colleagues in my time.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Asda; it’s a wonderful company to work for. I'm happy to retire, but sad to leave. At the moment I still think I'm on holiday."

Stephen's retirement made the local news, with this report from Fife Today showing colleagues forming a guard of honour for him.

Asda CEO Roger Burnley said thank you to Stephen for his exceptional service.

He said: “We are extremely grateful for the service Stephen has given Asda during the last 43 years.

"He has done a fantastic job serving our customers across Scotland, as well as putting his colleagues first and sharing his great retail experience with other teams in the business. He leaves with our sincere thanks and appreciation and we all wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.”