MIKE Price knows a thing or two about fish and chips but has decided he has stomached enough after 50 years in the business.

Mike, from Park North, retired from T Quality fish and chip wholesalers after serving the company for more than half a century.

The 65-year-old joined the firm in 1951 when he was just 14-years-old.

"I have seen many changes during my 50 years at TQ," he said. "But there has always been a wonderful family atmosphere.

"When I first started there were five of us including the governor, Ken Dale, all based in College Street in Swindon.

"Now TQ employs 271 staff in 11 depots nationwide. The head office is still here in Swindon on the Westmead Industrial Estate."

He started his career unloading fish from trains at Swindon station and quickly learnt the skills required to cut and prepare fish.

Mike, who celebrates his ruby wedding anniversary with wife Meryl in September, recalls the competition from other fish wholesalers.

"One of our staff used to get to the station first in the morning and then put our competitors fish back on the train to Stroud," he said.

Mike, whose only child Amanda is married to boxer Paul Rogers, aims to stay busy in his retirement. He said: "I'm looking forward to spending more time with my family and I hope to spend more time gardening."

Mike added: "I will look back on my years at TQ with very fond memories. We have made a lot of friends here."