A textile industry stalwart has retired after 55 years in the sector – 40 of them working for the same Denby Dale firm.

Michael Halstead, 70, who lives in Skelmanthorpe, was presented with a retirement gift by directors James Hinchliffe, Robert Hinchliffe and Graham Wilby at yarn firm Z Hinchliffe and Sons to mark his many years with the firm.

Mr Halstead joined the company as a colour matcher in the worsted spinning plant 40 years ago, having already worked for 15 years at Clayton West firm R Beanland.

He later moved into the woollen side of the business at Z Hinchliffe as quality control manager before becoming production manager and taking responsibility for stock control.

His role took him to Europe, Israel, China and Mongolia on behalf of the company to source fabrics such as cashmere.

Mr Halstead is married to Tina and the couple have three children, Emma, William and Lucy.

In retirement, Mr Halstead plans to keep fit by taking plenty of walks.

James Hinchliffe, managing director of the company, said: “Michael combined three roles in quality control, production planning and stock control and is highly experienced in the industry.

“He has been a very valuable member of the team.”