Sue Fisher, the familiar face of Grayshott Pottery, is set to retire after 41 years. Sue who last year celebrated her 40 years of continuous service at the Pottery, is now due to retire over the next few weeks. She celebrated her retirement with family and friends from Grayshott Pottery, at The Pride of Valley in Churt, near Hindhead, last week.

Sue joined Grayshott Pottery in 1968, straight from completing her 'Art & Design' diploma course at Farnham Art School, now Farnham College for the Creative Arts, started her career as a decorator, painting slipware, casting and fettling but then as a good team player, she found herself trying new skills and moving around the growing business.

For the last 31 years she has worked in the Pottery's extensive Gift Shop and became a manager in 1974.

"I am sad to be leaving the Pottery. I have lots of friends here - both customers and staff. But I have had a lot of fun here and will look forward to popping back as a customer this time and to say hello to all my friends!"

The past and the present Pottery's Managing Directors were there to say goodbye to Sue.

David Real, Sue's first Managing Director said, "I recall interviewing Sue 41 years ago. She always had a gentle approach and enjoys dealing with people. She demonstrated a talent for arranging things from the start and could be seen as an early 'retail stylist'. I enjoyed working with her because she was calm and unflappable which is a great gift when dealing with the public. Sue has been a great asset to Grayshott Pottery and a good colleague to many through the years. In retirement she plans to spend more time in her lovely garden and to pursue more seriously her other artistic talents such as drawing and painting".

Phil Bates, Trustee of Grayshott Pottery, thoroughly supported this sentiment and said, "Having worked with Sue for over 40 years I know her contribution to the Pottery has been immense. Her buying and display skills were exemplary and she will be missed."

Ed Snell, the present Managing Director toasted farewell to Sue saying "We will definitely miss Sue. I personally am very grateful to her for all the support she has given me over the last few years and she will be a tough act to follow."

For further information about Grayshott Pottery & Café Bistro - for opening times and tours please call 01428 604404.