Veteran Royal Chauffeur Retires Aged 90 After Two Decades at Gosport Asda
Ron, a 90-year-old ex-Royal Corps of Signals soldier, is hanging up his boots—and his Asda apron—after nearly 20 years at the Gosport store. From serving in the Army in Suez and Korea to chauffeuring the Royal Family at Lambeth Palace, Ron’s had a colourful career spanning decades.
From Soldier to Royal Chauffeur
Ron joined the Royal Corps of Signals in 1948, working as a driver and signalman in Suez and Korea. Later, he became a chauffeur for the Royal Family, ferrying VIPs like Prince Charles and Princess Anne from Lambeth Palace until his first retirement in 1996.
“Princess Anne would often joke with me, saying ‘oh you again’ when she saw me driving,” Ron recalled in 2017.
Asda’s Beloved ‘Store Grandad’
For almost 20 years, Ron has been a fixture at the Gosport Asda, affectionately known as the store’s “grandad.” Colleagues say he’s a cheeky, straight-talking legend beloved by everyone.
Rachel Webber, the store’s community champion, said: “Ron is really going to be missed by everyone. He’s always happy to share a pearl of wisdom and has been first in the queue for fundraising. When we held a retirement and birthday party for him, colleagues even came in on their day off!”
- He was treated to a hamper packed with his Asda faves: pork pies, steak slices, and cheese puffs.
- Despite some health troubles this year, customers have been asking after him and wishing him well.
Family Ties and Fond Farewells
Ron’s daughter, Lynn Reynolds, is the admin manager at the same store. She says working alongside her dad has been a “great opportunity.”
“It’s been heartwarming to see how the colleagues have come together to give my Dad a brilliant send-off,” Lynn said.
Ron added: “I’ve really looked forward to coming to work and knowing everyone here. Now at 90 years young, it’s time to enjoy retirement. The colleagues have been like family. I’ll definitely pop back on my new mobility scooter to check they’re coping without me!”
Store Manager Pays Tribute
Catherine Curtis, the store’s new manager, said:
“I was pleased to finally meet Ron—a character I’d heard so much about. On behalf of the store, thank you for your service and happy 90th birthday. Enjoy a well-deserved, relaxing retirement!”
Honouring a Life of Service
Each Remembrance Day, Ron proudly wore his medals and stood with the Royal British Legion members in the store foyer, a touching reminder of his dedication.
Ron’s legacy of service and warmth will be missed by everyone at Gosport Asda. Here’s to a very happy retirement for their much-loved grandad.
