A POPULAR Haddington businessman, who worked in the town for more than four decades, retired at the end of last week.

David Macdonald, who ran Leisure Time Sports, on Market Street, said he felt the time was right to hand over the reigns of the business to son Rory, after 44 years at the helm.

The sports shop opened in 1972 on the town’s High Street – where cafe The Pantry is currently based – before moving to its current Market Street home seven years later.

David’s final day in charge came last Friday, although he was adamant he wouldn’t be far away.

The 64-year-old, who lives on Rosehall Place, told the Courier: “I’m just getting near retirement age, so the time feels right.

“I’ll miss it – I think I’ll miss the interaction with the customers the most – but I’ll still be in once a week helping out.

“I’m going to do a Wednesday to give Rory some time off, and holiday cover.”

Dad-of-three David recalled memories of customers visiting the shop as youngsters, and as adults, while he admits much has changed since the shop opened.

He said: “If you can offer a competitive service with friendly advice there is definitely still a market for a local sports shop in the town.”

Rory, meanwhile, takes over after managing a sports shop in Atlanta, Georgia – a place his dad describes as “like nothing you would see over here”.

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David added: “He worked in here since he was 13 years old so he knows the place pretty well.”

After calling time on his 42 years in the town, David is preparing to enjoy more time on the golf course.

Rory, meanwhile, said it was “an honour” to take on the running of the business.

The 30-year-old dad-of-two said: “My dad has built a really great legacy, serving the local community, and I’m really honoured to pick up where he’s left off.

“It helps that I’ve worked in here since I was 13 – in fact most of my life has been spent in here – I can remember coming in and blowing up footballs when I was about five.

“It’s nice that I’ll be able to do that with my kids now.”

Fellow sports shop owner Joe Forte, whose own shop is just yards away on High Street, said: “In the 30 years that I’ve been here we’ve always had a good relationship. It is a credit to the local community that they have been able to support two local sports shops for more than 30 years.

“I’d like to wish David all the best for his retirement – he’s worked hard over the years. It’s great to see the business continuing in his family.”

Customers, too, paid tribute to Mr Macdonald through social media. Colin Mabon said: “It was always a pleasure to go in and get my bowling stuff from you, David. Enjoy your retirement.”

Jim Weston added: “Enjoy your retirement. I’m sure Rory will be a great success!”

While John Hamilton said on the Lost Haddington Facebook page: “Wishing David a long and happy retirement!”