Bin man ‘Cliffy’ retires after 45 years

Clifford Stone, or Cliffy as he is affectionately known, retired yesterday (June 6) after completing his final round. And the first thing he’s going to do in his retirement? Celebrate his 65th birthday which is today!

He said: “I have had a great time doing this job. Even though I am out in all weathers I have loved it. I shall miss seeing everyone I have got to know over the years and of course my colleagues but I am looking forward to my retirement and to having the odd lie-in.”

It is estimated that Mr Stone has emptied somewhere in excess of 3.5 million bins and seen plenty of changes during his time having worked for Verdant - a former council contractor - and originally Uttlesford’s predecessor authority Dunmow Rural District Council.

On his return to the depot in Great Dunmow on Wednesday, colleagues had arranged a special presentation for him in the presence of his colleagues and Uttlesford District Council chief executive John Mitchell, where he was given gifts including a Tottenham Hotspur football kit and a commemorative picture of his colleagues past and present.

It is estimated that Mr Stone has emptied somewhere in excess of 3.5 million bins and seen plenty of changes during his time.

When he first started collected metal dustbins from residents’ gardens and returned them after having emptied them. The introduction of health and safety meant instead of riding on the back of the dustcart, the crew must now follow stringent safety rules. Further changes have seen wheelie bins replace black sacks, which had to be thrown into the back of the dustcart.

Mr Mitchell added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Cliffy. He has been dedicated to the people of Great Dunmow for almost half a century and I am sure residents on his rounds will miss him. I would like to take this opportunity to wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement on behalf of all his colleagues at Uttlesford District Council.”