A business manager with a "tireless work ethic" is set to retire at the end of the month after almost 40 years.

Beverley Gugenheim started at Axter Ltd when it only had a team of three and a small office in Fore Street back in 1986. 

Now the flat roof waterproofing systems specification and design company is based at Fox's Marina and has grown to a team of 50 people.

Mrs Gugenheim said that when she first joined the company, she was using her knowledge of the French language to translate documents.

She said: "I was doing a lot of French translation work. When I returned to Suffolk in 1986, I was looking for a job where I could use my French."

She added that the firm had evolved into a "forward looking company" that had a "passion for the best systems" and was pleased that Axter was focused on its environmental footprint.

She added "It does feel very weird to be finishing but it's a good time to go. I'm optimistic they'll go from strength to strength."

Over the course of her 38 years with the company, Axter Ltd has won multiple awards, become recognised as a gold standard best employer and recently achieve a B-Corp status.

This is awarded to firms that have met exacting standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Phillip Wilcox-Moore, managing director of Axter Ltd, said: "From her tireless work ethic to her compassionate approach, Bev has been an integral part of the Axter team through both challenging and successful times.

"I am deeply grateful for her unwavering loyalty and commitment over the years and wish Bev the very best in her well-deserved retirement."