Tony takes a break after six decades at same firm

Tony Matthews, 72, of Terringes Avenue, Worthing, will retire on April 4, after working his whole career at the Oak Gate practice in Goring Road.

Over the years, he has seen the practice and the industry’s methods change, but said he has always enjoyed the job.

He said: “I’ve had a lovely life so far but I’m looking forward to taking a break. I will be going to Germany soon to visit the man who trained me originally and I’ve got a trip to America planned, too.”

He added: “I’ve lost quite a few friends in the last few years which made me realise it was time to stop and enjoy life.”

Tony still has the original letter sent to his mother by his first boss Thomas Prewett.

It reads: “I would suggest that a period of probation, e.g., three months, would be desirable to see if he likes the work and whether he has the capabilities suitable for training as a dental technician.”

The practice has been on the same road since Tony began as a trainee, with the only change being moving to a larger premises next door.

Tony said: “In terms of changes, you see a lot less gold work being done now, with people preferring more cosmetic work that can’t be seen.”

“The prosthetic side, in other words the dentures, is largely the same.