By JULIA RAVENSCROFT

A MUCH-LOVED boss whose family have run a garden machinery business for the past three generations has retired after 42 years.

Peter Dutton, of Duttons Mowerworld, on Old Chester Road, Daresbury, had a surprise retirement party thrown for him by his past and present colleagues and friends on Wednesday.

The ownership will now be handed over to Martin Fryer and Jon Driver, who between them have more than 40 years service to Duttons. The business specialises in garden machinery sales, service and spares.

Mr Driver said Mr Dutton will be missed by everyone and described him as a 'much loved employer.'