WHILE some senior Warwick residents struggle to find work, you just can't seem to get rid of others.

Two weeks ago, John Brydon rocked up to work at Olsens Home Hardware and Paint Place and celebrated his 80th birthday with his best mates.

Mr Brydon has been manning the aisles of the Warwick hardware store for 20-odd years and still won't miss a shift.

A former builder, Mr Brydon said he enjoyed sharing his knowledge with customers.

"It's about the only thing I can do is help the people with advice. A lot of people don't understand hardware and things."

Mr Brydon moved into town to construct the Warwick Tafe facility in 1986.

But coming to work at the hardware shop is truly like coming "home" for Mr Brydon, who said his colleagues were "like family".

While Mr Brydon takes out the prize for oldest employee, Rob Cross has been there the longest.

Mr Cross started working in hardware the day he left high school and has been in the industry ever since.

He started out at Cribb and Foote (where Bunnings is currently located) in 1972.

"Working at this age keeps the mind active and the body active," he said.

"I get a lot of enjoyment from working here."