A Celebration Fit for a Legend
To mark the occasion, a special presentation was held on 11th July, led by Andrew Howarth and joined by the Sawmill team along with many colleagues from across the site. Even a few familiar faces from Brian’s early days returned to take part in the celebration — a true testament to the impact he’s had over the years.
Andrew acknowledged the sheer uniqueness of the milestone:
“We’ve never had anyone else on this site who has worked for this length of time — it’s quite an incredible achievement.”
He shared Brian’s journey from apprentice to planner, recalling how he started straight from school on a five-year apprenticeship course. From there, he manned the front of the 3×7 moulder, moved to the Waco automated line as machinist, then up the ladder as Supervisor, Assistant Manager, Head of Production, and now Production Planner — a role Brian has thoroughly enjoyed.
Perhaps even more impressive than the job titles? Brian’s attendance record:
“Brian holds a further record — he completed 49 years with only nine days off sick. That’s an incredible achievement.”
And when asked about life outside of work, Brian kept it classic:
A lifelong Manchester City supporter (since 1966), a passionate gardener, and a proud Grandad to two grandchildren.
And when asked about retirement?
“Not a chance for the time being,” Brian said with a grin.
To wrap up the event, Brian shared a few words of his own:
“Wow — 50 years has just gone like that. Time goes quick when you enjoy yourself. On the whole, I’ve enjoyed what I’ve done — wouldn’t swap it. One hell of an experience. Thank you all.”
Back in My Day…
When Brian joined Arbor, the machines were all hand-fed, automation was just a buzzword, and if it rained outside — well, it rained inside too.
“There were puddles on the floor and water running down the electrical cabinets,” he recalls. “Thankfully we no longer have that problem. We’ve learned to fix roofs… and electrical hazards.”
One of his most vivid early challenges? Trying to machine Polish 5th Redwood.
“It contained more water than the River Humber,” Brian laughs. “Honestly, I think some of it was the River Humber.”
From Factory Floor to Office Door
Over the years, Brian’s role evolved from the hands-on chaos of the mill floor to the (arguably no more peaceful) confines of the planning office. His proudest moment? Becoming Planning Manager — a job he not only enjoys but excels at.
But it’s not just job titles that changed.
“The biggest change has been automation,” he says. “Machines are smarter, processes are smoother. It’s a different world — and a safer, drier one.”
People, Culture, and the Odd Whiskey-Fueled Bike Ride
Brian remembers the early years fondly — especially the colleagues who shaped his journey.
“Learning from the old lads — most of them are gone now, sadly — but they passed on so much.”
And while some things have changed, others haven’t.
“There’s always been a drive for quality. Customer satisfaction has always mattered, no matter what decade it is.”
And then, there are the stories. Like the time the whiskey-loving manager borrowed a bike, cycled off to the shop and rode it back through the mill — right into a repair trench.
“He popped his head out of the hole and said, ‘Who put that there?’”
Curiously — and somewhat suspiciously — when long-serving colleagues were asked to share old photos and memories from Brian’s early years, they suddenly went quiet. Apparently, the photos don’t exist and those tales are “probably not appropriate for the newsletter.”
Still, one heartfelt tribute did make it through, from Brian’s long-time colleague Gwyn Tuxford:
“Well, most of my tales of Brian wouldn’t fit in with today’s wokery… there were quite a few Ferguson moments we look back fondly on. I remember coming for an interview with my dad’s best shirt on, and Brian was there with Fred Lawson. He must have taken pity on me and gave me a start as an apprentice.
From that day, Brian was one of the most influential mentors of my first 20 years at Arbor. I’d like to thank him for the knowledge and ethos he instilled in me — in his own unique style!
The woodwork industry owes him a debt. Many people who trained under Brian are now in prominent positions in the industry. Brian is one of the pillars the Sawmill has been built on for the last 50 years. Thank you, BF.”
Reflections and Advice
If Brian could relive any year? It’d be that very first one:
“Just to remember what it was like to be 16 again.”
When asked what he’s learned in his five decades at Arbor, Brian keeps it simple:
“Work hard, do your best, and enjoy it. That’s the key.”
His advice for newcomers?
“Be reliable, work hard, and enjoy it.”
Looking Ahead
So, what’s next after 50 years?
“With a bit of luck and health allowing,” Brian says, “I’ll keep going.”
And as for his next milestone?
“To get my death in service payment,” he jokes. “Only kidding. I’m not done yet.”
