When Kevin Munford started his career with South Kesteven District Council as a 16-year-old apprentice plumber he was given a piece of advice that he has stuck to throughout 43 years of service.

Kevin joined the Council a week after leaving school in July 1978 and was told: "You are working in someone's home so treat it as though it belongs to your family – and remember that you are providing a service to all residents and the community of South Kesteven."

Kevin, who is due to retire from his role as Project Officer (Mechanical and Electrical) on 9th July – his 59th birthday – said he had never forgotten those words.

"That ethos has always stayed with me," he said. "I've done everything to the best of my ability because I've wanted to provide the people of the area that I've grown up in and lived in with the best possible service."

During his first two weeks with the Council's works department Kevin, who was indentured as an apprentice for five years, was based in Stamford and travelled between jobs on an old trade bike.

He has since gone on to work in property repairs and maintenance, completed courses in gas engineering and other subjects, and even had a short introduction to grounds maintenance.

Kevin worked on property inspections, as a property surveyor and an energy officer, before taking up his current role in 2010.

During his retirement he plans to spend more time with his wife, Molly, hopes to play more golf and find time to complete outstanding DIY jobs around their home, as well as enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle.

"I have made a lot of close friendships and will miss my colleagues," he said. "Forty-three years with the same employer is a long while but I'm now ready for a bit of me-time."

Kevin will be presented with a long service award by SKDC in recognition of his 43 years.

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, Cllr Robert Reid, said: "On behalf of the council, I would like to thank Kevin for his many years of loyal service and wish him a happy retirement.

"He will have seen many changes over the years, but his commitment and dedication to serving the residents of South Kesteven has remained the same throughout his time with us."