When Mildred Lister, pictured right, started work at Seymour Shirts, one of her first assignments was to convert RAF parachutes and bedspreads into dress shirts.

A lot has changed at the shirt makers in Sunbridge Road, Bradford, since the material shortages of 1945.

But 69-year-old Mildred, who began her job just weeks after the end of the Second World War, has been a constant presence.

So there will be a few tears on Friday when Mildred finally calls time on her association with Seymours.

And colleague Betty Silson, pictured left, - who joined the firm in 1951 - will miss her more than most.

Between them, the pair have clocked up 106 years' service.

For 56 years, Mildred has been responsible for sewing buttons on to the firm's famous made-to-measure shirts.

At the height of the company's output, she helped produce 10,000 shirts every year.

And managing director Michael Graham said it will be tough to replace her.

"As far as an employer is concerned, you could not wish for better loyalty and support," he said.

"There is not much loyalty in the jobs market now. Where else will you find a firm that has got 106 years' service from just two employees?"

Mildred admitted it was a long time to do the same job.

But she said: "I've enjoyed my work, and I'll miss all the people in the factory.

"The job is a piece of cake to me and I enjoy doing it - so why should I not stick with it?

"I'm not one for chopping and changing."

But despite her long service, Mildred admitted things could have worked out differently.

"When I came to the factory after I left school Sidney Seymour (the company founder) told me he was not really wanting to take anyone on," she said.

"But then he changed his mind and said he had a feeling he should take a chance on me.

"Here I am 56 years later - and he was only going to take a chance on me!"

Even though Mildred is moving on, Betty - who has recently clocked up her half century with Seymours - says she has no plans to retire yet.

"I think working keeps you going, as long as they want me I'll be staying for a while longer yet," said Betty, 65.

"To be honest, I've never even thought about leaving."

As for Mildred, she has no plans for her retirement. Except for one thing, of course: "I'll be popping back here from time to time to see my old workmates."