THE PERSONAL service and attention dispensed by Geoff Short has been a tonic to thousands of townsfolk for more than 30 years.

Now, Warrington's oldest independent pharmacist has retired from his businesses in Bold Street and Manchester Road.

During his career, the 61-year-old has witnessed many changes. When he qualified in the late 50s, pestles and mortars were regular tools of the trade and the pharmacists would prepare their own remedies.

Now, European laws and the trend towards pre-packed medicines have put paid to that.

"You can't just get a bottle out and label it. You have to sell things from the counter now, rather than make them up.

"At one time, we would make pills, lotions and ointments and treat skin complaints and coughs and colds.

"But the range of drugs we have today is far better from the patient's point of view," he added.

Mr Short first opened for business in Knutsford Road, expanding his chain to include branches in Padgate Lane, Manchester Road and Bold Street.

His two remaining shops have been sold to the Co-op.

"I'm very sad to be leaving. Customers and staff have been extremely faithful," he added.

In recent years, he has dealt with a new type of customer - registered addicts who report daily for doses of methadone.

Mr Short noticed a rise in the number of addicts 20 years ago and he blames the stresses of a modern society, geared towards money, material gain and success.

"It's very sad and a difficult problem to address," he said. "I have always treated drug addicts the same as every other person. We have made them welcome and they are grateful for the service given."

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