A DEDICATED group of Roberts Bakery employees have clocked up more than 1,000 years’ service.

The Roberts veterans have jointly amassed 1,020 years’ service between them with six people each chalking up 40 years’ service and 14 people working for the Rudheath-based bakery for 30 years.

Will Micklewright, from Northwich, joined the business in August 1977. He worked in the van sales department for 25 years and now works in slicing.

“I can’t believe I’ve been here for four decades,” Will said.

“I’ve been very happy at Roberts – it looks after people and I’ve made some good friends while I’ve been here.”

Colin Egan joined the business on Valentine’s Day in 1977 and worked within the confectionery side of the business for 20 years before moving into human resources and training in 1997.

Colin said: “I’ve really enjoyed my 40-year career with Roberts, which as much a family business now as it was when I joined. The business has never stood still and it’s been a diverse and interesting place to work.

“Roberts is now a next generation bakery and it’s terrific to be helping to inspire and develop our people as we head towards an exciting future.”

The long servers celebrated their milestone with fourth generation Roberts’ family members Mike Roberts and Lindsay Occleston at two special award evenings.

Lindsay said: “We’re proud to be a major local employer and delighted to honour a record number of hard working staff this year. These loyal people, who have served the company for many, many decades, have helped to make the business what it is today.”