A Trip Down Memory Lane for Ex Employee and Associate
Following some recent press coverage in light of our 160th anniversary we were approached by Sid Dewar on behalf of his 93 year old neighbour Aubrey Clitheroe who was sparked with excitement when he recognised the company he had worked and been associated with many years ago at its original digs in Peel Street, Bishop Auckland as a joiner. Sid also recalled how he had been associated with ‘Manners’ as a subcontracted decorator, with fond memories of the work, the people and the opportunities he had been provided. They wanted to come for a site visit at our current head office and workshop premises affectionately named ‘Peel House’ to see how much had changed.
Our Operations Manager and Furniture Manager took the time to walk Aubrey, Sid and Bishop Auckland Mayor Councillor Eliot accompanied by her consort Mr John Fryatt around our joiners shop to explore the materials, current work in progress and machinery. Answering questions and absorbing the rich history of the stories to be shared. Much delight came from spotting some of the original work benches from Peel Street.
We then settled for a cup of tea and chat, learning and making connections regarding the towns and industry development with some memorabilia to look through.
Mayor of Bishop Auckland Katie Eliot said: ‘I was thrilled to join Aubrey on his visit to Manners, as I got an insight into the company with its long heritage within the town. It was lovely to listen to the memories which Aubrey shared with great fondness and pride.’
As Aubrey left he exclaimed “I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit, thank you so much for having me – you will invite me again won’t you?”, as he walked around it was so great to see and hear his passion about being a joiner, mentoring and training apprentices and going on to teach himself. In fact, he taught our Specialist Joinery Director Steve Hodges when he was at school!
We are honoured by the passion staff past and present hold, and continue to invest and hold true to this as our fifth generation (with eager interest from the sixth) continues the Manners legacy.
