The Guardian’s most dedicated papergirl is finally hanging up her bag after 43 years delivering the news.

Audrey Jones has been serving the news-reading residents of Betws 364 days a year since December 30, 1972 – taking only Christmas Day off during her tenure at the Park Street newsagents.

The 79-year-old last took a holiday 37 years ago, when she and the family paid a visit to Great Yarmouth.

For more than four decades Audrey has been up with the dawn and in the shop by 5.10am each day to meet the newspaper distribution drivers, before setting off on her own delivery route.

She hands delivers all the papers in Betws herself before heading home for some breakfast and then returning to the shop, which she has been running single-handed since husband Cecil retired 10 years ago, to open up at 7am.

“Years ago we used to be delivery 400 to 500 papers a day, but now it is just 30 or so,” she said.

“How times have changed.”

There is much more to Audrey than just the news though – as every resident of Betws knows.

She has served her community with distinction, taking on the role of county councillor for four years and town councillor for 35.

Audrey, perhaps more than any other, has been witness to the changing face of the village, having been born and raised in Betws.

“So much has changed over the years,” she said.

“I now have customers coming in with their children who I served when they were young and coming in with their parents.

“It has been a privilege to see so many people grow up.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here – it has been an absolute pleasure, but now it is time to spending a little more time with my grandchildren.”

Audrey will be finishing her final round tomorrow (Saturday, September 26) and taking perhaps the most well-earned rest in history.