Erica Haythornthwaite, national account manager at Orchard Toys, is celebrating her 25th anniversary with the educational games brand.

Speaking about the milestone, Erica said: “I can’t quite believe it. What an amazing industry to have had the pleasure of working in for quarter of a century. Year after year I’ve met so many lovely customers, and been able to show them the best range. Today is definitely a far cry from the early days when I rang my orders in every two days on the road from public phone boxes.”

Asked about her favourite Orchard Toys product and career highlight, Erica said it is undoubtedly the number one seller Shopping List, which is a great door opener; and working with a palaeontologist at the Natural History Museum to develop Dino Discovery.

Simon Newbery, managing director at Orchard Toys, said: “It’s been a delight to have Erica in the company for 25-years, as national account manager for the South she’s a real asset for the business, and a joy to have on the team.”