A WOMAN who is one of three generations to work in Stanford-le-Hope's Co-op store has retired.

Valerie Copp, 62, of Fairview Chase, Stanford-le-Hope, has worked at the store for 20 years.

Her son Daryl Copp, 40, and grandaughter Elizabeth, 16, of High Road, Stanford-le-Hope, were working on the same shift when assistant manager Pete Sterry presented her with flowers and a certificate.

Son Daryl, who is a cash administrator at the store, said: "It's been an honour to work with my own mum for so long."

Valerie and husband Malcolm, 64, are planning a number of trips, the first being to St Albans then next year a Caribbean cruise with friends.

Valerie added: "I was looking forward to retiring but I shall miss the shop something chronic.

"It was really good working with my family and we got on really well."