Arkell's finance director blames red tape for early retirement

Ray Fisher, finance director of Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery, is retiring after 34 years at the company, blaming government red tape for his decision to quit.

He cited the "huge increase" in bureaucracy as a contributory factor behind his decision to quit now.

"It's got absolutely ridiculous recently," Fisher said. "Many of these rules and regulations take so long to comply with and in the big scheme of things mean absolutely nothing at all."

"It's very difficult for every business, large and small; it's so time-consuming and does nothing to contribute to the success of the company," he said.

Fisher started at Arkell's in 1974 as an accountant, before becoming the brewer's company secretary, said chairman James Arkell, "although it's such a long time ago none of us can really remember.

"What is important, however, is that he was the first non Arkell family member to become a full member of the board because we thought so much of him - and still do. The brewery really won't be the same without him."

Fisher said: "It's been an absolutely great career and wonderful fun - it is simply one of the best jobs to have as an accountant - because of course I've had to regularly sample the product!

Fisher was also Mayor of Swindon in 2005 and was recently re-elected as a town councillor for the Conservatives.