Customers who have walked through the doors of B&Q Oldham in the last 20 years might recognise this friendly face.
Alan Wrigley has worked as the store's "greeter" for decades, often lending a helping hand, giving sweets to little ones or pointing those on a DIY quest through the store with a friendly smile.
The now 90-year-old is so endearing he's gone on to earn himself "local legend" status - and such is his passion for working and helping others, Alan said he won't ever slow down and B&Q likewise won't get rid of him.
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While B&Q no longer hire "greeters" in its stores, Alan still stands strong, with only the slight help of a crutch, and may be the last man standing across the country in this unique role.
The popular worker, who hails from Denshaw, has also completed outstanding charitable work and supported local causes over the years.
He's raised more than £175,000 for various charities, including Dr Kershaw's Hospice, Springhill Hospice, Shelter and the B&Q Foundation.
To this end, he completed a bungee jump, a parachute jump and swam with sharks.
Alan celebrated his 90th birthday at the end of July and to commemorate the occasion and his incredible charitable efforts over the years, he was surprised in a special ceremony at work on Tuesday, August 15.
The mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, visited the store with a Mayoral Appreciation Award while B&Q colleagues presented Alan with a birthday cake, gifts and a special B&Q apron.
Presenting the award, Cllr Chauhan said he wanted to thank Alan personally for everything he's done for people, to which Alan said: "I haven't finished yet."
"I'm not giving in yet", he added with a grin before saying he would "cherish" the special award.
Speaking to The Oldham Times, Alan said: "I've been meeting and greeting people all the time, plus I collect for different charities and supply sweets for the kids.
"These people, I meet everybody that comes in, and these people keep me alive.
"Without them, I wouldn't be here.
"I like greeting everyone. It keeps me going."
When asked about his charity work, Alan said it was the death of his eldest son more than 25 years ago which compelled him to raise money for charity.
Tragically, Alan then lost two grandchildren and his wife, Norah, and said he kept on collecting money for causes close to his heart.
He added: "That's what has kept me going.
"I won't give in, you see, I'm not going to give in.
"The only time I will slow down is when I'm under. I'll keep going as long as I can."
Alan added: "I'm surprised all these people have come and taken my picture.
"I wasn't keen at first - I can do this job but I'm not very good at speeches.
"But I've done alright, I think."
When asked for advice on how to live a long and happy life, he said: "I've always worked and tried to be pleasant with people.
"I help people as much as I can."
The mayor also said the criteria for the appreciation award is strict and is only given to those who go "over and beyond" in serving their community.
Cllr Chauhan added: "Alan is 90 years old and has been serving the people of Oldham doing amazing charity work, raising thousands of pounds over 20 years, and also setting a very good example - how to spread a positive message.
"Anyone who has walked into B&Q has probably come across Alan and been touched by him.
"I think it's fair to say that Alan is a bigger brand than B&Q in Oldham and I wanted to appreciate his hard work."
The mayor also said it was important for the mayoral staff and council to come to Alan, rather than invite him to the mayoral parlour, to show the place where Alan is most comfortable - and doing what he does best.
The community champion was even still directing and helping customers in the store while speaking to the mayor.
Cllr Chauhan added: "This is another example of a great business demonstrating you can bring people together post-retirement or whether people have special needs - they can be a very valuable asset.
"I'm standing outside of the store today not because of the store, but because of the Alan, and that shows the strength and vision that he brings to the business.
"I feel very honoured meeting this gentleman and it's a treasure you keep for life, having met someone like him."
Drew Hunter-Fox, deputy store manager of B&Q Oldham, also described Alan as a "much-loved member of staff".
Drew said: "He’s known as a bit of a local celebrity in Oldham with his daredevil antics, and is adored by colleagues and customers alike.
"Alan is a truly fantastic ambassador for everyone at B&Q – and he isn’t slowing down, even at 90.”
If you have a story, I cover all things Oldham from food reviews and local business news to music and events, pubs, education, crime, property, health, community concerns and much more. Please email me at Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Twitter @Livbridge with your news.
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