A WIRRAL bingo caller is to hand in his microphone for the last time later this month after 33 years.

Mark Lees began his career at Mecca Birkenhead in July 1986.

His stint as the branch's longest serving Bingo caller comes to an end with a retirement party on Sunday, August 25.

Since joining the firm, he has worked more than 7,500 days and said his time at Mecca has been full of wonderful moments.

Within two months of the current Mecca Birkenhead club opening with Mark as a caller, they won the National Game jackpot several times, totalling over £250,000 in winnings.

On his retirement, Mark said: "After 33 delightful years at Mecca Birkenhead, I'm sad to finally be handing in my microphone and calling my last numbers."

As well as calling the numbers, Mark was also the company's charity champion for eight years, completing the Wirral Walk and raising more than £10,000 for Whizz Kids, Marie Curie, and Carers Trust.

As an ex-cinema projectionist, Mark is also a huge film buff.

He regularly joins Linda McDermott on BBC Radio Merseyside to chat all things film, entertainment, and cinema history.

In fact, Mecca Birkenhead is planning a movie-themed leaving party for him.

Terry O'Donnell, club manager at Mecca Birkenhead, said: "Mark has been such an incredible addition to the Mecca Birkenhead team over the years, and everyone is so sad to see him go.

"We can't wait to celebrate his final day with him - we're sure it will be a special occasion.

"None of us have ever met a character as bubbly as Mark, so we're sure we won't have seen the last of him here at Mecca.

"We hope he enjoys his retirement immensely and stays in touch."

On future plans, Mark said: "I'm looking forward to a restful retirement!

"I plan on taking it easy, walking my dogs and catching up with friends.

"Who knows, maybe I'll even drop by the club one night to play a game of bingo!"

Mark's retirement party takes place a week on Sunday, August 25.

To catch Mark in action before then, enjoy a night out at Mecca Birkenhead.