The man who climbs to the top of Minehead’s clock tower and winds the clock to the correct time every Thursday is giving up his day job.

Estate agent David Lethaby is retiring after working for Chanin & Thomas for many years until Greenslade Taylor Hunt took them over in 2017.

David, who has worked in estate agency since 1980 and has been a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors since 2000, is set to finish work at the end of May.

Greenslade Taylor Hunt partner Martyn Venner said: “David has been a highly valued and loyal member of staff who knows West Somerset like the back of his hand.

“There are very few occasions when he can walk down The Avenue in Minehead without a wave or a smile from members of the local community.

“His professionalism and enthusiasm have never waned during his career and he has shown exceptional loyalty to Chanin & Thomas and latterly to Greenslade Taylor Hunt.

“We shall miss David and his sunny character – and wish him a very happy and well-earned retirement.”

In his spare time David takes an interest in most sports, has been actively involved with Minehead Cricket Club for many years, is a keen golfer and enjoys coastal and countryside walking.

He is married to Jayne and they have two grown up children – Emma, who teaches at Foxes Academy, the hospitality and catering college in Minehead, and Richard, who is working abroad.