A SALE woman who has helped dress up to one million children has decided to hang up her tape measure.

Karina Waits, 68, of Petites Modes, decided it was time to call it a day after 55 years working in the Tatton Road children's wear business.

It is believed that the shop, which has been an official uniform retailer to many of Sale's schools, has been operating since at least the 1920s.

In 1960, Karina then a teenager, was employed at weekends and holidays by her mum and dad Billie and Kerry Hardy, shortly after they took over the business.

Karina a former pupil of Woodheys Primary and Ashton on Mersey School, went to work at Lewis's in Manchester and to study bookeeping and business at St John's College.

Following the death of her father she went into partnership with her mother and working full time at Petite Modes, which sells not just uniforms but christening and communion clothing.

She subsequently took over the full running of the business in 1992, after her mother passed away.

Mum of two Karina said: "I suppose one of the biggest changes is that in the early days we had lots of children's fashion than there is now. There were a number of retailers in town but the supermarkets took away a lot of business and they closed.

"Whereas for us, people have stayed loyal , I think because of our outstanding services and the fact we sold good quality clothing at reasonable prices.

"Equally, we have always employed really good staff, who despite often moving on, have become one big family."

Karina said the business had been sold and would continue selling children's clothing and school uniforms.

"Hopefully, now that I am about to finish, I will be able to devote some time to the Ashton on Mersey Showband which my late husband was involved with, do some gardening, do some travelling and being able to do some cleaning at home."

She added: "I would like to thank all the loyal customers, staff and agents especially at odd difficult times.

"I am confident that the new owner's will continue with the same high quality service and commitment to customers in the future."