Started with Hobson & Porter
1985
First ever job? I started working here in 1985, I've worked in almost every department over the years!
What do you think clients value most about working at Hobson & Porter?
The effort we make, we try to please all of our clients.
The best project you've been involved in?
I’ve got lots of memories of jobs that have taken us on to the next stage. There was St George’s Road in Hull; 63 new-build houses. I remember being stood in the garage photocopying the tenders on thermal paper like it was yesterday. At that time, it was a huge job for us!
Favourite memories from working at HP?
I remember Richard Bettison, one of our Project Managers, arriving at mum and dad’s when he was a young apprentice – he’d come on his bike and he was soaking wet through. He put some jeans on of my dad’s that were half-way up his legs and headed out to site! I’ve got lots of memories over the years!
When it’s raining on site, it’s always busy in the …BLANK.. department back at head office?
It’s the other way round- when it’s sunny there’s never anybody in the office!
What is the biggest misconception about construction?
Due to big values linked to projects and the high-turnovers, people outside the industry think it’s stashed with cash and it just isn’t true; It’s high-risk, low-return and it’s an awful lot of hard work. I’ve been here through two recessions and I remember times when our pipeline all-but dried up and we had to travel outside of our usual area to pick up whatever work we could find, it’s a world away from easy money!
First car?
A little red Mini called Cherry. I can even remember the registration!
How do you take your brew?
It has to be Yorkshire Tea!
Favourite biscuit?
Chocolate digestive with a milky tea.
Last film watched at the cinema?
Probably 'Elf' back in 2003!