A popular motorbike salesman who has spent his career "selling people dreams" has retired. 

Paul Macaree, 63, worked for Orwell Motorcycles in Ranelagh Road for 10 years, but now thinks the time has come to "take a well-earned rest".

Ipswich Star: Paul said he now plans to take a well-earned restPaul said he now plans to take a well-earned rest (Image: Orwell Motorcycles)

"I have loved motorbikes for almost my entire life," he said. 

"I used to buy one for a couple of quid back when I was 11 and I'd ride them around fields. I got chased by a few farmers every now and then. 

"I got a job as a dispatch rider and I couldn't believe I was getting paid to ride them. And then ten years ago I got this position at Orwell and I couldn't believe I was getting paid to talk about them."

Paul, who is originally from Romford, now lives in Colchester with his partner. 

Between them, they have six bikes. 

Ipswich Star: The 63-year-old has had a motorbike since he was 11The 63-year-old has had a motorbike since he was 11 (Image: Orwell Motorcycles)

"She's really pleased I'm retiring," he said. 

"It means I can now take a well-earned rest. 

"I'm looking forward to it, but I am going to miss my job - particularly the social side of it."

During his time at Orwell, Paul sold between 1,500 and 2,000 bikes. 

He never missed a shift and described every day as "a giggle".

"My co-workers, the customers - they made it what it was. 

Ipswich Star: He said co-workers and customers helped to make every day a giggleHe said co-workers and customers helped to make every day a giggle (Image: Orwell Motorcycles)

"I loved every minute of it and it was just great from start to finish.

"To be honest, it's now going to be really strange because I almost don't know what to do with myself.

"I never missed a day there and now I'm going to have spare time."

Paul made the difficult decision after a "change of circumstances" resulted in him wanting to take a step back.

However, he has no plans to drop his love for motorbikes. 

"We plan to take our bikes out for long journeys and even on rallies," he said. 

"That won't stop anytime soon. 

Ipswich Star: Despite retiring, Paul plans to keep up his love for motorbikesDespite retiring, Paul plans to keep up his love for motorbikes (Image: Orwell Motorcycles)

"We also have a motorhome that we'll be using a lot more. 

"I'm happy, but also sad to say goodbye.

"I had a job where I spoke to people and sold them motorbikes. It doesn't get any better than that. My partner says I was selling them dreams and that's what it felt like.

"I'd like to say thank you to everyone at Orwell Motorcyles - both the staff and customers. It's been an amazing ten years."