Exmouth business man sailis into new era

AN EXMOUTH businessman who has spent most of his working life in the town is dusting down his office table for the last time before retiring. Mike Saunders, of Sarlsdown Road, is to leave his position as divisional director of Countrywide plc, one of the largest estate agency firms in the UK

AN EXMOUTH businessman who has spent most of his working life in the town is dusting down his office table for the last time before retiring.

Mike Saunders, of Sarlsdown Road, is to leave his position as divisional director of Countrywide plc, one of the largest estate agency firms in the UK, at the end of June.

The 59-year-old worked as branch manager for Fulfords Estate Agents in Exmouth for a number of years at the start of his career.

Mike, married to Jan Saunders, and who has two sons, Nick and Daniel, said he was looking forward to his retirement so he could go sailing and play golf.

He joked: "I officially stop work at the end of the month, although I have been winding down for a while now.

"Once I retire, I hope to go climbing in The Alps and sailing has always been a passion.

"I'll be playing golf a lot more. I haven't had chance to do this much because work has been so busy of late - I've only been able to play once or twice."

And Mike added: "I may also take to the skies as I have a private pilots' licence."

The former grammar school pupil joined Exeter City Council as a trainee surveyor before he embarked on a career in the property business.

He joined the Exmouth Fulfords office, which was then known as Leslie Fulford & Son, in 1975.

Mike, reflecting on how the current recession had affected the work of estate agents, explained: "The last 18 months have been unprecedented - it has been tough.

"I do think, however, that the industry has started to turn the corner now.

"I have enjoyed the challenges brought to me during my career. Once I retire, I will be able to reflect on it with a huge sense of gratification.