A POPULAR pharmacist who has racked up more than 46 years of experience has recently announced his retirement.

Carl Morteo, of Lloyds Pharmacy, North Petherton, left behind a job where he has made many friends through colleagues and customers.

Mr Morteo originally ran a pharmacy with his wife and was also previously a manager of Boots Pharmacy in Bridgwater.

Kathy Hooper, supervisor at Lloyds Pharmacy, said: “He is a wonderful person and excellent with the customers.

“I’ve worked with Carl for around 15 years.

“He worked here when it was an independent pharmacy before Lloyds took over; when you go from a small to a big company it’s a lot different.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Carl for all his help and all that we’ve learnt from working with him over the years. He will be sorely missed.”

Nicola Bowey, pharmacy technician at Lloyds Pharmacy, said: “Carl qualified in 1968 so, as you can imagine, he has seen a few changes through the years.

“We are based in North Petherton and even though we are part of a brand the chemist has been here for many years and is very much part of community life.”