Working at 79 and loving it

Peter Sample runs a building company in Northumberland. He’s 79 years old and has no plans to retire.

In his own words:-

 ‘I love it. Retirement has never appealed to me. The idea of sitting around doing nothing is my worst nightmare. Work gives me purpose, keeps me fit and keeps my brain sharp. The way I see it, if I stop working, I’ll die.’

 Powerful words. 

He alludes to others he sees retiring, suddenly moving from being full on to having little to do, and appearing old within a year or two. 

Research has been done into the link between early retirement and death but it appears to be inconclusive. 

Of course, by keeping his company going he is also providing employment for others, a benefit I suspect our society doesn’t value sufficiently. What do you think? Do let us know. 

You can read the full article here:- 

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/02/06/79-year-old-builder-will-not-retire