A POPULAR Isle of Wight holiday park maintenance manager is hanging up his hat after more than four decades at the helm.
Gordon Hayles, 69, is retiring after 42 years at Thorness Bay Holiday Park near Cowes.
The maintenance manager started his career at Thorness Bay with a summer job as a grass cutter and has been working at the park ever since.
He became the park’s maintenance manager, and as a qualified gas engineer, oversees the planning and delivering of maintenance and repair jobs, managing budgets, and communicating with guests and owners to resolve queries.
Gordon plans to enjoy his retirement by playing golf at Newport Golf Club, spending more time with his five grandchildren, and walking with his Labrador and two spaniels.
Gordon will leave Thorness Bay, owned by Parkdean Resorts, at the end of the month with years of experience, lifelong friends, and endless fond memories.
When asked about his 42 years of service, Gordon said: “It’s been an incredible 42 years at Thorness Bay.
“So much has changed over the years, particularly the accommodation, which has been upscaled and expanded – back in the day, I remember converting wardrobes in 24-by-10 metre caravans into shower cubicles.
“Every day is different, but it’s wonderful to always see guests have great holidays in such a beautiful environment surrounded by stunning views and wildlife.
"Parkdean Resorts is a fantastic place to work and meet people, and although I’ll miss my colleagues, I know I’ve made lifelong friends.”
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