Just the job! Old soldier Joe finds work
AN 89-year-old ex-soldier who advertised for work to stop him “dying of boredom” has landed a job.
Joe Bartley was interviewed yesterday at restaurant Cantina Kitchen and Bar and so impressed the owner he was hired on the spot.
Mr Bartley, a widower from Paignton, Devon, started his job search a week ago because he was lonely and wanted to pay his rent rather than rely on housing benefit.
The veteran, who served in the Airborne Forces in Palestine at the end of the Second World War, was interviewed by Cantina co-owner Kate Allen, who called him after seeing his advert in the local paper.
Mr Bartley has already tried out the new uniform for size and will work his first shift on Sunday.
He said: “I don’t think I’ve had a job interview before. It was a breeze. I wasn’t nervous. I’m joyfully surprised at the outcome – I’m really glad I got it. I’ve spoken to a lot of people here already. They all seem really nice and one lady gave me a kiss. You don’t see anybody where I am – in a flat – so I’m looking forward to getting involved and meeting people.”
Mr Bartley, who lives alone after his wife Cassie died last year and has no children, hopes to work about 20 hours a week and says he would also be keen on a bit of overtime.
Ms Allen, 43, said: “We’re really looking forward to having him. We’re not in the business of patronising Joe. This is a genuine offer of work. An 89-yearold putting himself out there and showing enthusiasm and pro-activity? We can’t wait. Clearly he is an extremely likeable gent.
“We have some really young members of staff, as young as 14. He will be our most senior one. His personality and zest for life was his best quality in the interview. It will be a lot of fun having him around.”
Customers at the cafe said they were already impressed with Joe.
Paignton resident Margaret Berwick, 75, said: “This is my local cafe. I’m looking forward to seeing him – I’ve just given him a kiss.”
FORMER soldier Joe Bartley, 89, says he is “looking forward” to starting work at the Cantina Kitchen and Bar in Paignton, Devon, on Sunday after the owner spotted his advert looking for a job. With his appetite for hard work and hunger for success he’s all set for a great start to his new career.