An 80-year-old woman who works three shifts a week behind a bar said she just “loves the pub life and the people”.
Linda Oliver has worked at The Arden Arms in Stockport, Greater Manchester for the past 20 years and said she has no plans to retire.
She told Radio Manchester: “I should be at home knitting, only I can’t knit or sew – but I can pull a pint!”
After beginning her career behind a bar at just 17, Ms Oliver said: “I look forward to work – it gives you something to get up and get dressed up for.”
She added: “I like the people, I like looking after people as well, serving them nicely.”
Ms Oliver said her first bar job was in 1963 at the Red Bull in Hillgate, Stockport, where she would pull pints on a Sunday evening.
“I was 17 when I started my first job as a barmaid – but in those days they didn’t mind that.
Linda Oliver“The pub life had always been a part of my life growing up.
“My mum used to drink in pubs, and we’d be in the kitchen with a packet of crisps and a drink.”
Ms Oliver has worked in hospitality ever since, working behind the bar at the Maple Leaf in Stockport before joining the Arden Arms 20 years ago.
“When I joined the Arden Arms I was only meant to work here for two years, but I just love it,” she said.
Certain things have changed since Ms Oliver first began her career – but others remain the same.
“I used to be trotting about in heels but I can’t even walk in them now,” she said.
“But the regulars – I still know their orders from donkey’s years ago.”
Ms Oliver said the best part of the role had been the people, both colleagues and customers.
“You aren’t just a barmaid you’re a listener,” she said. “You know about everyone’s lives.
“Some people come in and they haven’t spoken to anyone all day.
“They come in alone and they need someone to talk to.”