Rothley: Man, 98, says it is 'a pleasure' to still be going to work

Ivor Ward started working for EM Pharma nearly 20 years ago

A man from Leicestershire says it is "a pleasure" to still be working four days a week at the age of 98.

Ivor Ward started working for EM Pharma, in Rothley, nearly 20 years ago after a career which saw him work as a Royal Engineer and play professional poker.

He said his job in the company's production department gave him purpose and helped combat loneliness.

Mr Ward, who lives alone, said his colleagues were "like a family".

"It's a pleasure to come, otherwise I'd just be at home sitting on my own doing nothing, ageing fast," he said.

"In here, we have a laugh."

Colleague Marie Mitchell says Mr Ward, whose children have retired, was an "inspiration".

"He's amazing, he really is," she added.

"He encourages us all and makes us feel like if he can do it then why can't we?"

'Keeping your mind sharp'

Mr Ward is not the only person over retirement age to work at the healthcare company.

Anne Nicholls, aged 70, works in quality control.

She said: "It keeps your mind sharp and it keeps you physically active.

"It keeps you young and it integrates you with young people. You don't want to sit at home and vegetate.

"I'm not ready to go yet as I believe I still have a lot to give."