Door Industry Journal - Spring 2015

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk industry news CHAMBERLAIN DOORS DRIVER HANGS UP THE KEYS AFTER 27 YEARS Ian Harkness, one of Chamberlain Doors longest serving members of staff has finally hung up his truck keys after 27 years delivering garage doors, electric operators and garage door spares to Chamberlain Customers. Many customers who have been in the industry for many years could set their watch by Ian’s arrival, on time and as promised, week in week out. Chamberlain Doors estimate that Ian has covered over two million miles in the last 27 years, mostly incident and accident free - an astonishing achievement on todays road network. Roy Chamberlain also estimates that Ian has delivered over 75000 garage doors, 10000 electric operators plus spares and accessories too numerous to count. Ian “officially” retired at the age of 65 two years ago but would not let go of his keys and stayed two further years until he finally announced his intended retirement at the young age of 67. The company thanked Ian for his loyalty, reliability, honesty and great contribution to the company’s success over those 27 years. Ian became a great personal friend of everyone at the company, not least company Chairman Roy Chamberlain who would often meet Ian en route and enjoy an evening out and a good curry at whichever local Balti House was available. Managing director Karen Diggle recalls Ian being so reliable whenever she met customers in the field their comment would again be “We can set our watches by Ian” . Roy has fond memories of meeting up with Ian at the then Chamberlain depot in Weston Super Mare, always at dawn after early morning drives down the M5, the start of Ian’s journey onwards to Devon and Cornwall, where again, Ian forged some very strong and happy friendships. The West Country was Ian’s main delivery run for many years. Ian will be enjoying his retirement send off with his wife Patricia when they take advantage of a well earned holiday gift from the company to mark Ian’s magnificent service. We all wish Ian a very long and happy retirement. www.chamberlaindoors.co.uk 7 THE door industry journal spring 2015 IAN FIRTH HARDWARE LTD ANNOUNCE THE APPOINTMENT OF THREE NEW DIRECTORS Ian Firth Hardware Ltd, an independent, family run company based in West Yorkshire, about to enter its 33rd year in business, is pleased to announce the appointment of three new Directors to the board. Joining Ian Firth, Bernice Firth and Robin Firth are Lee Beardsmore, Paul Claydon and Amanda Haley. Lee joined the company in 1999 as I.T. Manager and has now taken on the role as IT & Commercial Director. Paul joined the external sales team in 2006 looking after the South East region; he takes the role of National Accounts Director. Amanda has been with the company in various roles since 1997 and takes the role of Technical and Marketing Director. Ian Firth hopes the rejuvenated board of directors will offer a fresh approach to strengthen the company’s market standing in offering quality doors, ironmongery and associated building products, backed up by reliable service levels with first class technical advice. Ian commented: “These new appointments are part of our new strategy to strengthen the management of the business to take it forward. It has been a difficult few years in the economy, but we can see fresh confidence in the marketplace so we want to be ready and look forward to growth.” Ian Harkness alongside his “25 years on the Road Banner” in 2013 when he reached his 25 year service milestone. Ian Harkness with Roy Chamberlain in December 2014 on Ian’s actual retirement from the company. From left to right – Lee Beardsmore, Amanda Haley, Ian Firth and Paul Claydon