PARISH council employees with more than two decades of service in their village between them have announced their retirement.

Lawford Parish Council is in need of someone to take over its odd jobs after long-standing handyman Dennis Hitchcock retired from his post.

The council is set to advertise for a company or individual to take over the tasks around the area, which include tidying and cutting back hedges.

Dennis, who is in his 80s and has been working in Lawford for about 14 years, will still carry on his handyman role for Manningtree Town Council.

Lawford Parish Council clerk David Thurlow has also announced he will leave his role in July.

After 13 years working as clerk, Mr Thurlow will retire to spend more time on hobbies and with his family. For more details about either position e-mail law fordpc@btconnect.com