A pensioner who placed an advertisement in a newspaper seeking work to stop him "dying of boredom" has started his new job.
Army veteran Joe Bartley, of Paignton in Devon, made headlines when he put a notice in the local Herald Express that read: "Senior citizen, 89, seeks employment in Paignton area. 20hrs+ per week. Still able to clean, light gardening, DIY and anything.
"Save me from dying of boredom!"
The local Cantina Kitchen and Bar took him up on his offer and he completed his first trial shift at the restaurant on Sunday, the Herald Express reports.
The 89-year-old was welcomed with cheers and applause when he arrived.
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After news of his job hunt emerged earlier in the week, Mr Bartley said he was "absolutely exhausted" by the sudden and unexpected attention his ad had received.
Mr Bartley, whose wife died almost two years ago, said he placed the ad because he was "bored stiff" and felt like he was living in solitary confinement.
Working for a wage will also mean he can pay his rent and not rely on housing benefits.
The ex-soldier, who served in Germany, France, Palestine and Egypt during an 11-year stint with the Armed Forces, said: "I want to pay my own blinking rent. That's what I'd like to do."
