Joy and I went to Triberg in Southern Germany – the home of the cuckoo clock – and from a choice of more than 1,000 I have chosen the one shown in the picture. It plays 2 tunes (Edelweiss and the Happy Wanderer), the cuckoo chimes on the hour and half hour, it has an 8 day mechanism and, most importantly can be switched off between 21:30 and 08:00.

As well as the cuckoo every hour, the dancers rotate through the doors, the man milks the cow and the water wheel goes around. It has been a privilege and a pleasure to work with you all and I thank you for your help and guidance, as well as your advice over the years. I can honestly say I have enjoyed my working life and intend to enjoy my retirement as well, although no major plans for the future yet. Lots of love, and the very best to you all for the future. Ken Marchant.

Dear Friends, Thank you so much for your comments and best wishes for my retirement. I was deeply touched when Nick Johansen sent the card, and especially with the kind comments and your generous donations that you made through the Just Giving web site.