When I first joined, it wasn’t part of a grand plan. The engineering path I wanted wasn’t available, the market had slumped, and a van driving job came up through someone I knew. I thought it might be a stopgap, but the variety kept me engaged – every day really is a learning day, and that’s what made me stay.

Back then, the business felt very different, though family values were always there. A turning point for me was when Chris Robinson became Head of Transport. His calm approach brought stability, recognised potential, and encouraged people to develop new skills. That sense of teamwork has stayed with me, and even today, Chris doesn’t fully realise the impact he’s had.

Looking back, my proudest moments have been around training and helping others grow – from driver apprentices passing their tests to working with the Scouts. A highlight is Tim Hall, our driver trainer, whose journey with Ketton Scouts started when his daughter asked him to ‘help out.’ He went from Cub leader to saving the section from closure and has been central to countless adventures over 16 years. Supporting local communities like Ketton Scouts reminds me that our work extends beyond the yard – it’s about the impact we make on people’s lives.

The biggest lesson we’ve learned is safety: if we can’t do it safely, we don’t do it. Go steady, get it right first time, and look after people.

I’ve stayed because the role is comfortable yet challenging, with variety, learning, and a team that listens. My long-term goal is simple: take each day as it comes and keep making steady progress. If I’m remembered for anything, I hope it’s that I always did my best and encouraged others to do the same, both in work and in giving back to the community.

If I’m remembered for anything, I’d like it to be this: that I always did my best, and that I encouraged others to do the same.