The occasion was marked with a staff lunch and presentation of gift awards.

Production operative Alan Wilson, who joined Williams 20 years ago, said: “I was made to feel welcome and part of the team from my first day. At Williams, there are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills, and you really feel like part of a big family.”

Continuous improvement supervisor Thomas Waldron noted the variety of work and access to training: “There’s never a dull moment working here. As well as all the daily challenges, there are plenty of courses helping you to develop your skills. I’m currently up to level 4 of my Continuous Improvement course, and I’m planning on doing more once I finish and see where it takes me.”

Jason Brockwell and Gary Rump, both marking 20 years, reflected on their time at the company. Jason said: “I enjoy the variety of work we do here, from loading lorries to product amendments and much more. There have been plenty of changes to the company during my time here, and being a part of the company’s 40th anniversary celebrations a few years ago was very memorable.”
Gary has only missed one day of work due to illness in two decades.

Managing director Tim Smith commented: “I am delighted and very proud to be celebrating the long service of eight colleagues who collectively have given nearly 200 years of loyal service to Williams. It is always a pleasure to see how many people stay with us for many years, their extensive knowledge and experience perfectly illustrate the high level of quality we aspire to, and clearly demonstrate the depth of expertise and skills that have made Williams synonymous with quality and performance.”

Employees recognised:

• 40 years: Adrian Wilkinson
• 30 years: Adrian Gosling
• 20 years: Gary Rump, Jason Brockwell, Richard Goodacre, Teresa Boddy, Alan Wilson, Thomas Waldron