Hampshire builders merchants will say farewell to one of its longest-serving employees tomorrow.

Elliotts’ commercial director, Tony Adams is to retire after more than 40 years with the company.

Tony joined Elliotts in 1973 as a heavyside manager responsible for the Southampton yard.

He became branch manager when Elliotts opened their Chandler’s Ford branch in 1987 and was responsible for building up sales and maintaining an efficient transport fleet.

Tow years later Tony was promoted to branch operations manager and in 1997 he became commercial director.

During the last two decades Tony has been responsible for opening the company’s branches in Romsey, Winchester, Totton, Fareham, Portsmouth, Tadley and Christchurch.

Stuart Mason-Elliott, chairman of Elliotts, commented: “Tony has been my right-hand man for all operational issues and has had a leading role in helping us grow our branch network.

“He has helped develop the strong Elliotts ethos with staff, suppliers and customers and we are eternally grateful for his dedication throughout the last 45 years.”

Tony Adams, Commercial Director, added: “It has been a pleasure working for Elliotts. I have had the honour of being part of some fantastic branch openings and network growth across Hampshire and Dorset.

“The people here are incredible – there’s been a real fellowship with those I have worked with, so I will certainly miss the team.”