MICHAEL Early is bowing out after 40 years as a careers officer.
Over the years he has advised thousands of youngsters on their next steps.
Now he's got his own big decision to make - what to do in retirement.
"I'm not sure, but I think Mrs Early will find something for me to do," joked Mike, 62.
His wife Sheila joined him for a farewell presentation at Calderdale and Kirklees Careers HQ in John William Street.
High schools where Mike has worked include Royds Hall, Fartown, Salendine Nook, Honley, Holmfirth and Shelley.
He is a Methodist lay preacher, a dedicated Huddersfield Town fan and enjoys after-dinner speaking and watching cricket.
Mike also collects newspapers, not only from the towns and regions of the UK but also from abroad.
All his working life he has been an active trades unionist, holding posts including steward and welfare secretary.
Latterly, he was education secretary for the local government union Unison.
Jack Costello, chief executive of Calderdale and Kirklees Careers said: "Mike will be sadly missed by everyone here and by the pupils and teachers he works with."
