When 68-year-old Bert Eggs retires from his post as Chief Chip-eater, the city of Wrexham is going to find it's got a bit of a problem on its hands.

There has been a chip-eater in Wrexham for the last three hundred years - indeed, the position has been in Bert's family for the last five generations. Without his efforts, and those of his predecessors, Wrexham's chip population would have spiralled out of control, and the city would have been inundated by chips long ago.

Knife and fork in hand

Since he first took over from his father in 1955, Bert has ventured out each morning, come rain or come shine, with his knife and fork in hand, keeping the streets chip-free for normal folk. But age and ulcers have finally caught up with Bert, and when he finally turns in his salt and vinegar next month there will be no one to take over from him.

He has no offspring to carry on the family tradition, and despite advertising the position heavily, Wrexham City Council have still been unable to find a replacement.

Double gravy for Bank Holidays

"I can't understand it," said councillor Martin Stamford. "We're offering a very attractive package, including a healthy bread and butter allowance, plus double gravy for Bank Holidays.

"It really is a lifetime opportunity for the right candidate. Ideally we're looking for a fat bastard with a heart condition, but at this stage we're willing to consider anybody."