AFTER 17 years in the role, Cwmbran Shopping centre’s manager has retired.

Gerry Hutchings joined Cwmbran Shopping in 1995 and has since become a familiar face in the town centre, heading a 60-strong team.

Mr Hutchings has been responsible for dealing with all retail tenants at the centre, which offers 170 retail stores.

Under his leadership the centre picked up a silver Green Apple Environment award in a national search for Britain’s greenest firms.

Mr Hutchings said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working at Cwmbran Shopping and it’s been a very rewarding 17 years.

“I’ve particularly enjoyed working closely with all of our retailers and shopping customers, who are at the heart of everything we do.

“I wish the team the best of luck for the future and look forward to seeing the centre’s continued success.

“I’m going to enjoy my retirement, my wife and I have already planned a trip to Australia to visit my daughter and grandchildren.”