York roofing firm's double success

A York family roofing company has double reason to celebrate after reaching the finals of two prestigious national competitions.

Geoff Neal Roofing (GNR) Limited is one of only 6 UK roofing companies to reach the finals of the ‘Specialists Awards’, run by Construction News and the National Specialists Contractors Council to highlight the vital role of specialist contractors in construction.

The company was selected for its £117,000 renovation project to re-open a 15th century church, St Mary’s at Watton, East Yorkshire, which was forced to close in 2011 following the theft of its lead roof.  The five-month project (managed by chartered Architects Ferrey and Mennim) involved installing a new terne-coated steel roof as well as renovating ancient timbers and replacing leadwork, brickwork and masonry.  The project demanded specialist, heritage roofing expertise as well as close coordination with architects, English Heritage and the Parochial Church Council.

The final winners will be announced at The Specialists Awards presentation to be held at London’s Hilton Metropole on 26 March 2013.

The company is also celebrating the success of two apprentices who are among only seven young leadworkers from across the UK to reach the finals of the national Young Leadworker of Year contest.  The competition is run by the Lead Sheet Association, a professional body at the forefront of training and technical advice  in the use of rolled sheet lead in construction.

James Lloyd-Hughes (23) and Joseph Penman (20) joined GNR in 2011 and are now in the second year of their Heritage Specialist Apprenticeship Programme NVA Level 2 in Leadwork.  Their leadworking skills and knowledge will be scrutinised by experts at an assessment day in February and the overall winner will be announced at London’s Park Lane Hilton on Friday 17th May.

‘We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding craftsmanship and excellent service for our clients,’ said Managing Director, Geoff Neal, ‘so it’s very heartening to receive such prestigious industry recognition for our work.  We know that our success depends on having an exceptional team which is why we’re committed to investing in the training and development of all our employees.  We’re delighted at the success both James and Joseph have achieved so far!’

For more information visit www.nealroofing.com