He is perhaps one of the best known faces in Burnley town centre.

And the reason why Neil Sledding is so familiar is because he has worked in the same butcher’s shop in Keirby Walk for an incredible 40 years.

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Starting at Haffners straight from the former Barden High School at the age of 16, Neil never imagined he would still be behind the counter four decades on. And the reason he has been is because he loves the job, and the best part of it for him are the people he serves.

Neil Sledding, who has clocked up 40 years working at Haffners' butchers in Burnley's Keirby Walk, with his latest apprentice, junior butcher Jake Maybury.

“Burnley people are so friendly, I love serving them, it’s like being part of a family. Over the years I’ve served a couple of generations of customers.

“You get to know them, hear about their families and there is always time for a natter about the Clarets. Some customers even bring presents back for me when they go on holiday.”

A big Burnley fan, Neil (56) is also a member of the Burnley and Pendle Scooter Club. Not quite retired yet, Neil works one day a week now, travelling to the shop on his beloved scooter. Neil has mentored several apprentices and Jake Maybury, his latest one, is thriving. Neil also paid tribute to former Haffners owner John Haffner and former shop boss Alan Ford who he spent many years working for.

Haffners is a name synonymous with Burnley and the family company dates back four generations and has been trading in the town since 1889.

Neil (pictured back row, fourth from right) during the days he started out at Haffners in 1986

The business was sold in 2022 when new owners Dean and Ted Cockett promised to keep the recipes the same and look after existing staff while driving the business forward after taking over from outgoing managing director John Haffner, the great grandson of the original founder.

The Keirby Walk shop was established in 1970 and was once one of around six or seven butchers in the town centre.

Neil said: “Customers are definitely returning from the supermarkets to buy from us as they want the quality. And there isn’t much difference in the price.”

When he isn’t in the shop Neil, who is married to Freya and is dad to William (24) and 22-year-old Abbie, cares for his mum Carol who is 80. He is also a volunteer gardener for family and friends.