News 2020 web... · 2020. 6. 17. · MAIN NEWS 2 John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS CONTENTS...

SUMMER 2020

SPRING 2018

Employees’

NewsRetired

A picture from June 1979 taken at the Laing Sports Ground in Rowley Lane. It is part of the last selection of 10,000 images from the John Laing Collection being released as part of the Breaking New Ground project.

MAIN NEWS

2 John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS

CONTENTS

Company news 3-5Latest news from John Laing Group plc,

including introducing the new CEO.

Coronavirus 6-7 How the Trust, welfare and retirees have been

helping and coping during the 2020.

Team Spirit Past 8-11News from 50 and 25 years ago.

Photo competition results 12-13See the best of this year’s entries including our

unanimous winner.

More historical treasures 14The Breaking New Ground project enters its

final leg as more photographic finds emerge.

Engineers’ reunion 15This popular annual event was another casualty

of the pandemic, but hear from the organisers.

Readers’ news 16-17Your letters, a mysterious ‘old Laing sign’ and

a national TV appearance for retiree.

Puzzle page 18A mini trivia quiz and a couple of fun puzzles.

Club news 19Latest news including biennial meeting update.

Your anniversaries 20-21Two pages of special anniversaries.

In Memoriam 22-23

We won’t forget 2020 - but we just got on with it IF nothing else, the events so far this year show we have to adapt to what is in front of us; life goes on and the best laid plans can always go awry.

This issue is testament to this with a mini trivia quiz and puzzles replacing the club events on page 18, and a slight reshuffle at the back of the book on the In Memoriam page, including an obituary for a long serving centenarian who passed away earlier this year.

Everyone has been affected by the coronavirus and John Laing Charitable Trust (JLCT) was quick to protect staff and retirees whilst ensuring continued support for those who needed it. You can read about this, funds committed to helping with coronavirus generally and stories of how retirees have been helping their communities during the pandemic on pages 6 and 7.

We have the results of the 2020 photo competition on pages 12 and 13, with a wonderful display from finalists.

One thing we could not save was the summer lunches. In fact, all club gatherings have had to be cancelled, but work goes on, including the biennial meetings between clubs. The same is true for clubs president Lady Laing, who has stayed in touch with members with a letter describing what lockdown has been like in Malta. However, this has been fitted in around the charity work she and Sir Martin have been engrossed in for the past few years. You can see how it is coming to fruition on page 14.

One of the featured items in news from 25 years ago is ‘Bring Your Daughter to Work day’. It reminded me of when my former editor brought his son to work at the local newspaper. As they were walking around the office, the young boy got very upset and started crying. His father asked him what was wrong. As everyone gathered round the boy sobbed loudly: “Daddy, where are all the clowns you said you worked with?”

Separately, in a slightly abstract story of our times, a moth walked into a podiatrist’s office. The doctor asked: “What’s the problem?” The moth replied: “Doctor, let me tell you. I hate my job. Every single day I have to go and I hate my boss and I hate my job. I wake up every day next to a woman that I once loved, but I stopped loving her long ago. Last year my youngest child died of pneumonia. My other child... I no longer love him. When I look into his eyes, all I see is the same hatred I see when I look in the mirror. All I want to do is end my life, but I can’t even do that.” The doctor said: “Those are some serious problems. You need help, but you need a psychiatrist. Why in the world did you come into a podiatrist’s office?” And the moth said: “Because the light was on.”

Looking forward to catching up with you in brighter times.

Alex Finkenrath

RETIRED EMPLOYEES’ NEWSAlex Finkenrath, C/O 33 Bunns

Lane, Mill Hill, London, NW7 2DX. Tel: 0207 901 3429 Mob: 07921 831780E: [email protected]

Other correspondence:John Laing Charitable Trust, 33

Bunns Lane, London, NW7 2DXTel: 020 8959 9683

Pensions Department:Mr Phil Wilson, Pensions and

Payroll Manager, John Laing Group Plc, 1 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AN.

E: [email protected]: 020 7901 3200

Printer: White Hart Press, Bedford.

AUTUMN DEADLINE: JULY 31, 2020

CONTENTS

COMPANY NEWS

John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS 3

New CEO starts at John LaingBEN LOOMES has taken over as Chief Executive Officer of the John Laing Group plc.

He was previously Managing Partner and Head of Infrastructure at InfraRed Capital Partners, a global infrastructure investment business focused principally on greenfield and operational Public, Private Partnership (PPP) projects.

During his 20 years in the infrastructure sector, Ben was Managing Partner of 3i Group plc’s infrastructure business and a member of the 3i Group Executive Committee.

Will Samuel, John Laing Chairman, said: “I am delighted to announce we have appointed Ben as our new CEO. He brings strong leadership and business development capabilities, as well as a solid investment track record and extensive experience in the infrastructure sector. The Board has conducted a thorough search process to find the best

candidate and we are delighted to have attracted someone of Ben’s calibre to lead the Company. We look forward to working with Ben to further develop and grow John Laing.”

Ben Loomes said: “I am delighted to be joining John Laing. The Company has a strong heritage, successful business model and a

resilient portfolio of investments. I am looking forward to leading the business through the next phase of its development as it seeks to invest responsibly in infrastructure projects around the world. I have known John Laing and its team for many years, both as a partner and as a competitor, and I am excited about joining the business to help build further on its success.”

Will Samuel added: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our sincere thanks to Olivier Brousse for his valuable contribution to John Laing and he leaves with our very best wishes for the future.

“Olivier was instrumental in delivering the successful IPO of the Company, evolving the Group’s geographical footprint and diversifying its investment portfolio. He has built a successful and scalable platform that leaves John Laing well positioned for future growth.”

New JLG CEO Ben Loomes

THE Cherry Tree Wind Farm has delivered first generation to the Australian National Electricity Market.

Despite the ongoing challenges of operating under COVID-19 restrictions, the project remains on track.

A Pandemic Response Plan has been implemented and site-specific controls and measures ensure the safety of all staff.

Regional Managing Director Justin Bailey said: “I am delighted that we have been able to reach this key milestone which is testament to the hard work of our colleagues during these challenging times. I would also like to thank our delivery partners Vestas and AusNet, whose major efforts have also made this possible.”

Once the wind farm is complete, Infigen will purchase the electricity that the wind farm generates and on-sell it into the grid. Vestas will also provide operational and maintenance services to the project for 30 years.

Justin added: “Cherry Tree Wind Farm is a key asset in our renewable portfolio. When operational, the expected annual electricity output will be enough

to power the equivalent of 37,000 homes and significantly reduce the CO2 emissions in the area.

“We are committed to developing critical infrastructure projects in Australia that improve the lives of the communities in which we operate and it is great to know that our projects are contributing to a more sustainable future for the people of Victoria.”

The farm is located approximately 15km south-east of Seymour, Victoria and is being constructed by renewable energy developer Infigen Energy and international wind turbine manufacturer Vestas.

The first generation will be followed by the final phase of work that involves the final testing of all turbines and wind farm control systems ahead of the farm being brought into full operation.

Pandemic planning enables electricity supply

COMPANY NEWS

This will be Australia’s largest correctional

facility when complete

Milestone at flagship correctional centre


TECHNICAL Completion has been achieved at Clarence Correctional Centre, which will be Australia’s largest such facility when fully operational later this summer.

The site will be capable of accommodating 1,700 inmates; feature state of the art security and surveillance equipment and will focus on inmate rehabilitation to reduce the rate of re-offending.

The project has been delivered by the NorthernPathways consortium in partnership with the New South Wales Government in which John Laing is the majority shareholder, along with construction firm John Holland Group and custodial services provider Serco Group.

Technical Completion marks the end of the construction works on site; the project will now progress through various commissioning

activities ahead of becoming fully operational.

The project has delivered a significant economic benefit to the local community, creating over 1,200 jobs during construction and a further 600 jobs during operations.

“We are delighted to have reached Technical Completion,” said Consortium Lead and John Laing Project Director, Michael Cramb. “Achieving this critical milestone is a result of a genuine partnership approach from the NSW Government and the NorthernPathways consortium.

“We look forward to finalising the commissioning activities and opening this fantastic facility which will make a significant difference to reducing the rates of re-offending in New South Wales.”

Light rail project opened remotely for key workersJohn Laing is delighted to announce that the final stage of the Sydney Light Rail has opened to the public.

Officially opened, remotely, by the NSW Government’s Minister for Transport, Andrew Constance, the line completes the 12-km Central Business District (CBD) and South East Light Rail project and runs from Circular Quay to Kingsford.

Residents in Sydney are experiencing similar restrictions to others around the world, and the NSW Government and project partners wanted to ensure the light rail system is fully available to key and essential workers, allowing them quick and safe travel around the city.

“The railway is being opened, importantly, so that those critical workers across our community are able to get to work at this time,” Andrew Constance said, speaking via a video link. “We are delighted to see the final stage go into operation,” said John Laing Asset Director, James Bramley. “We hope the opening of the final stage will assist essential workers who need to cross the city, and be available for residents, commuters and tourists whenever current measures are lifted.”

JOHN Laing Group plc has completed the sale of its 30% interest in Auckland South Corrections Facility to AMP Capital for a price in line with the Group’s latest valuation.

Luciana Germinario, John Laing’s Chief Financial Officer said the Company had worked with the New Zealand government on the

960-place correctional facility to use public-private partnerships to drive measurable social change.

She added: “Following recent disposals in the US and France, we are pleased to have made further progress with our divestment programme. We have a strong pipeline of high-quality assets becoming available for sale over

the next 12 months, including the Intercity Express Programme (IEP) East and our Australian wind and solar portfolio.

“While the impact of recent events on secondary markets remains to be seen, our strong balance sheet gives us flexibility and leaves us well positioned to maximise value.”

Divestment pipeline strong following ASCF sale

COMPANY NEWS


THE Granville Harbour wind farm in Tasmania is heading for completion with the arrival of a giant parts delivery.

The components have collectively travelled for around 160,000 km across 230 individual convoys, which together have moved more than 370 size-over-mass loads. Each load weighs up to 146.5 tonnes and is up to 67 metres long, making transportation a considerable logistical challenge.

Over 20 turbines are already installed according to the Granville Harbour Operations Pty, the project company in which John Laing holds a 49.8% stake.

The AUD$280 million Granville Harbour Wind Farm will eventually power up to 46,000 homes using 31 turbines – 20 of which have already been installed. The project is currently supporting 200 jobs in the area, with five more created on a permanent basis once the wind farm is fully operational, which is expected to be in mid-August 2020.

John Laing’s Investment Director, David Beaton said: “This has been a complex coordination task which has been a long time in preparation.

“The components are huge, and safety and traffic management

was a large part of the process. “Thanks to our project partners,

the Department of State Growth, local emergency services and council representatives to help bring the equipment safely to site.”

The Tasmanian Government has recently reiterated its support for large-scale renewable energy development in the state. They also added that it would be ‘an integral part’ of Tasmania’s COVID-19 recovery process.

Giant delivery will see wind farm investment to completion

When it comes to bulky deliveries, this consignment of parts to Granville Harbour Wind Farm in Tasmania will be hard to beat.

John Laing Group plc has entered into a purchase and sale agreement for its French wind portfolio.

The French wind portfolio consists of three assets spread across France in Pasilly, Sommette and St Martin, with

a total capacity of in excess of 50MW. Having taken the assets through the final stages of construction and into steady state operations, the Group has now agreed to sell the portfolio to Greencoat Renewables PLC.

The total purchase price is slightly ahead of the Group’s latest valuation and the transaction is expected to complete in the second quarter of 2020, subject to customary consents and regulatory approvals.

Company agrees deal for French wind portfolio

CORONA FEATURE


ONE of the first realisations when social distancing and isolation were implemented during the coronavirus pandemic was just how valuable grandparents are for free child care.

The other side of this, or course, was the vast amount of free time that many retirees found themselves with.

A lot of readers including Dick and Josephine James have told us they immediately took the opportunity to declutter their homes. After hours of work deciding, sorting, bagging and boxing it became apparent that no charity shops or recycling centres were open, so back it all went!

Another reader who has seized the opportunity is 91-year-old Inger Cooper. She was dreading not being active in the community and got herself an allotment so she could still get out legitimately.

There are sadder and more serious aspects to this horrible disease especially for older people. Not only have older people proved more susceptible to the illness, but they have been prevented from seeing friends and family due to social distancing measures.

One of the most common things we have heard is: “I wish I could see my children/grandchildren and give them a hug.”

This virus has actively kept families and friends apart and a stark example of this is the effect it has had on funeral services.

Travel restrictions and limits on numbers attending funerals meant that many retirees have had to pay their respects to family, friends and former colleagues in a very different way. A number of venues now offer webcast funerals which at least enabled some readers to pay their respects virtually from their own homes.

A number of retirement clubs have lost members during this period. In the Midlands, Club Realm has already decided to hold a memorial event to honour and remember members who have died during the coronavirus period, as soon as it is allowed.

Technology has been embraced by all and sundry to help fill the gap left by the ban on face to face contact.

Retirees have been using software like Houseparty and Zoom to enjoy chats, quizzes and even board games with their family members.

Some retirees have been using this software for meetings and the London retirement club REAL are planning on streaming an upcoming event online thanks to member Chris Day.

The clubs are a lifeline for many retirees, so having to cancel events has been a blow, but members have been supporting each other and staying in touch by phone and letter.

Technology has played an important part in the way the John Laing Charitable Trust has adapted to deal with the Coronavirus.

Most staff work from home anyway and have all the necessary software and support required to run meetings and exchange documents by computer.

There have been some changes in the way the support was given. The Trust moved quickly to protect retirees and staff by cancelling home Welfare visits. However, the team continues to provide the same level of support through phone visits.

In fact, many have said they have been busier than ever because no one can go out, so everyone is in when they call.

A number of key events have had to be postponed or cancelled, including the retirement club summer luncheons, although the same set of venues will be carried forward to 2021. Lady Laing has written to all the clubs who are sharing her letter with members (see page 19.

The planned unveiling of a Blue Plaque in Carlisle honouring Sir John Laing has been put back and completion of the Breaking New Ground Project -

How we have all been THE Coronavirus pandemic which struck the UK this year has changed all of our lives, but none more than retirees. However, it has also demonstrated the strength, care, humour, gratitude and resourcefulness which reside in us all. Retirees have stepped up, one even joining the Warwickshire Scrubbers. John Laing Charitable Trust and its staff have adapted whilst maintaining full support for retirees, but we all carry on. Here is an update of how we have all been getting through...

JLCT was quick to pledge £1.5 million to help those most affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Most of this will be distributed through the National Emergencies Trust which has already received £650,000 so far this year. Food Charity FareShare also received £50,000 to provide immediate aid.


CORONA FEATURE

n The effect of isolation cannot be over stated. Eleven days into lockdown, Mrs Smith was heartbroken watching her husband staring aimlessly through the window into space. It was so sad to see, that she thought about trying anything to cheer him up - even letting him back in.

n A husband and wife went shopping and put on their masks for safety. When they got home and the man took his mask off, the wife realized that she had brought home the wrong husband.

n When you are worried about the elderly and then you realise - you are the elderly!

n Some canny parents have taken the opportunity during the Corona crisis to save money next Christmas by telling their young children that Santa did not make it through.

n The drop in the price of petrol during the lockdown is like a bald man being given a hairbrush.

including the Building Britain film - has been slightly delayed, although measures are in place to see it through to completion.

JLCT was also quick to commit £1.5 million of charitable funds towards dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.

Most of this will be distributed through the National Emergencies Trust, but a large donation was also made to the food charity FareShare which is working to ensure the most needy are still getting food during the crisis.

The readers’ stories have also proved most inspiring during this period.

Gill Wingham is an accomplished seamstress having made wedding dresses, theatre costumes and completed a degree in Fashion and textiles. She decided to come out of retirement to make scrubs for her local hospital. She bought material herself, although friends were so impressed by her efforts that they

clubbed together to help pay for it. Gill also wrote to some big firms and was delighted when Damart sent her a large batch of bedding to use for free. Husband Alan has been roped in as an unwilling model and two batches of 10 scrubs have been delivered to Barnet Hospital.

In the Midlands, Marcelle Cater has joined the Warwickshire Scrubbers, who have fulfilled the entire shortfall of scrubs and scrubs bags for their county’s health services.

She said: “Initially I was just donating material to the cause, but

when I saw how much work there was to be done, I had to try and find the old sewing machine I had

not seen for 40 years and do some basic stitching.”In Scotland another talented

craftswoman, Anna Waring answered her daughter Yvonne’s call for a special crocheted rainbow to put in her window. The NHS is close to their hearts as their other daughter Andrea is a Consultant in Forth Valley Hospital. Anna and husband Andy had also been supplying a local locked down care home in Blantyre with much needed knee blankets and fulfilled an urgent call for 20 crocheted chickens within a couple of days. It is inspiring to see how the older generation - epitomised by people like Capt Tom Moore - are still quick to step up and muck in for others.

Stay safe and well, and remember that it is business as usual for the Trust, so let us know if you need support.

The hoarder’s shopping trolley

Some bits from the lighter side

getting through coronavirus

See back cover for details of where to find the latest coronavirus updates, help and advice


SEVEN staff at the South Western Thermalite factory were lauded for improving industrial relations through a series of social activities. Team Spirit praised the social committee which, by organising two social functions a year, a savings scheme, a weeklydraw and a children’s party had ‘drawn together the men and women in the factory’.The editorial said: “The point about it all is they have done it themselves, encouraged by their factory manager. ..It is no use asking for more social activities if there are not the people to work and organise and get the functions going. And it is no use waiting for volunteers to come forward, unless you are preparedto make an effort yourself.”It went on: “How to improve industrial relations is one of the biggest talking points in industry today and most experts wouldagree that while conditions and pay are of major importance, job satisfaction is the over-riding factor.”

APPRENTICE Bricklayer Gerald Best had won a place in the finals to select Britain’s top apprentice. The Leeds based 18-year-old was due to take part in the finals

at Letchworth in June. If he won through that, he would join the select band of apprentices representing Britain at the International Finals in Japan. He already had a silver medal from college for the high standard of his work. He and his wife had an eight-month old baby and said they spent most of their time decorating their house - on which they bought on a mortgage rental purchase scheme.

IN SCOTLAND it was a case of ‘you take the low water mark and we’ll take the high water mark’ as they worked on new reservoirs fed by Loch Lommond. By raising the level of the loch by nine inches (230mm), the Central Scotland Water Development Board could supply 100 million gallons (454,600,000 litres) a day to the industrial belt of Scotland.

So, two teams of Laing men were building two 10,000,000 gallon reservoirs on the route of the pipeline from Loch Lommond to Torphichen.

LAING Camera Club had attracted nearly 100 entries for its annual exhibition at Mill Hill. This was split roughly 50/50 between black and white prints and colour slides. Judge Dudley Beckley made 12 Gold Star awards and ten Blue Star awards. Team Spirit featured mainly images of women and one tasteful glamour shot, however a far safer entry to show is ‘Floodwaters’ below.

PIPELINES were big business for the Company at this time and Laing Pipelines were part of an Anglo Dutch project to drag 4km of concrete encased pipeline out to sea so that tankers could discharge their cargo of crude oil The total length of the pipeline between the mooring buoy and the tank farm where the oil would end up was 8km (5 miles). Laing Pipelines carried out all the civil work on shore and preparation of the pipes large and complicated pipes. The site team’s yard stretched half a mile back from the sea wall at the Humber Estuary with a welding platform running the whole length of it. More than 100,000 tonnes of chalk was brought in to build a causeway so the team could access everywhere.

TEAM SPIRIT 50 YEARS AGO - 1970

Some of the team, from left: Graham Machin, Welder and Welding Foreman Robert Le Monier, Cashier Brian Carlin, Dave Cave, Production Controller and Agent Kelvin Cannon. Working inside the pipe up to 800m from the entrance.



Team Spirit - 1970

HRH PRINCESS Alexandra was apparently so taken with the ‘bright shops and friendly crowds’ whilst opening the Burton on Trent Centre, that she abandoned the programme and joined local women in a shopping spree.Team Spirit reported that, what was supposed to be a 20-minute tour of the shops - following the official welcomes, speeches and presentations - went on much longer as the princess visited shops, chatting to staff and shoppers alike.She was enjoying her day so much that she was 40 minutes late for the official luncheon at the Town Hall.There was an air of excitement as most of the shops had only opened for the first time on that day. Three of the larger department stores had been trading for a fortnight in order to train staff.Team Spirit reported: “Housewives and children waited three hours in bitterly cold weather to watch the ceremony and

ONE of the highest profile projects nearing completion of main construction was the Western Avenue extension. Pictured right are the huge, internally illuminated signs which were being inspected by representatives from site and from the consulting engineers at the Hendon works of Franco Signs.However, there was drama when the last of the great precast units on Western Avenue was placed (picture inset). There were a total of 400 units, each weighing between 100 and 130 tons, cast in the site’s own precast yard.The bogie carrying the last unit across the Harrow Road got stuck - just ten minutes before rush hour. An electrician fixed the fault just in time for the final unit to take its place on the gantry transporter for final placing.

were rewarded when Her Highness broke protocol stood chatting with them at the rope barriers.”Laing Midlands Region opened negotiations about the development in the early 60s - the planning took seven years and construction had only started 15 months earlier. However, the excellent relationship client, development company and Laing had made for a

relatively smooth project.Team Spirit added: “There was a fire, there was a power cut, the water main to the site was inadvertently blocked and tarmacked over when the road was repaired. There was snow when it was least wanted, there were problems of access, but all the way through, Jim Bullock and his team stayed calm - or reasonably calm.”

chatting with Chargehand Joiner Mr E McLaren

Princess Alexandra goes ‘off programme’ at the opening of the Burton Centre, inset

1970


JLC was voted undisputed Major Contractor of the year in the 1995 Building Awards. The Company topped the poll in all sections of the major contractor category as the contractors’ and housebuilders’ choice, thearchitects’ choice and the quantity surveyors’ choice.In the clients’ choice section JLC scored more than double the points of its nearest rivals.In total, JLC scored 745 points - compared with 570 for second place Bovis. In third position was Amec with 465. David Blair collected the award

LAING Telecom set up a helpline to help with the new digit being added to telephone area codes around the country and the new international access code. An additional ‘1’ was being added to telephone area codes tofollow the initial ‘0’ prefix. In five cities (Leeds, Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester and Bristol) this meant a completely new code and a change to the local number. The new international access code 00 also came into operation. Site offices had to update databases, records, stored telephone numbers and implement switchboard changes.Permanent offices also had to change stationery, literature, company signs and vehicle livery. Messages on answering machines had to be corrected, and short code diallings amended.

ONE of the first buildings to

be built in Scotland by Laing: a200ft-high tower block in thecentre of Hamilton entered therealms of famous Scottish monuments (pictured above).The block joined the likes of Edinburgh and Stirling castles, 30 years on, with a class A listing.It was built as a headquartersbuilding for Lanark County Council in the ‘60s, was based on the design of the United Nations headquarters in New York and Brasilia.Historic Scotland, which granted the classification, described the 17-storey tower as ‘a landmark building of the international modern style of architecturein this country’

FOLLOWING negotiationswith Nissan UK to restructure the lease on Property Division’sMaple Cross development, it had become a more secure investment. Let at the depth of the recession, the lease included three clauses allowing the tenant to break it after three, five and 15 years. The building was owned

by Laing Investments Maple Cross Ltd, a joint venture company between Laing and P&O, Laing’sMark Lester led negotiations and Property Division chairman,Derrick Ardern said: ‘This has enhanced the value of our investment, and made it much more saleable.”

THE Edinburgh Office of Laing Scotland & Ireland was celebrating its third birthday. Having a local base in Scotland had enabled them to pick up millions of pounds worth of small and medium sized projects to balance the major projects being undertaken by the Company at the time in the region.

COMMENCEMENT of workon Phase 1 of the SaigonCentre was celebrated in Vietnamese style.Representatives of theclient and Ho Chi Minh Cityauthorities joined withLaing and subcontractor Colico on site.Keith Buckley, JLI’s director inAsia pointed out that Laing was the first British contractor to work in Ho Chi Minh City. The Saigon Centre was a 24-storey retail, office and residential development set to become the tallest building in the country, with a three-levelretail podium, including 11floors of office space and 10floors of apartments, as wellas three levels of undergroundparking. Top down construction technique was used on the project.

MUSICIANS from the world famous Halle Orchestra played at the topping out of the Bridgewater Hall project in Manchester and then to Laing staff and apprentices at the Free Trade Hall that evening.

The International music venue would become home to the orchestra on completion and was being constructed to specifications befitting one of the world’s top orchestras. A landmark feature of the project was the 280 anti-vibration springs which isolated the building from passing traffic, including trams. In addition, the auditorium was cocooned for most of its height and a double roof structure screened out sounds from above.

Musicians played on the roof for the topping out, a tradition well known to the orchestra’s Musical Director Kent Nagano, whose father was an architect.



John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS 11John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS 11

Team Spirit - 1995

1995The Princess Royal, patron of the Spinal Injuries Association, visited the new spinal injuries unit at Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital, which had been completed by Laing North East.Project Manager, TerryHughes, and Contracts Director, Ray Owen, were at the ceremony.The unit was second only to Stoke Mandeville in size and importance, with patients travelling from all over the country.In addition to planning internal accommodation toensure the needs of people with spinal injuires were fully accounted for, agreat deal of consideration was given to landscaping areas around the building.

The Princess chatted to Dave Webb (pictured

right) who painted by mouth - holding a brush

between his teeth having been paralysed from the

neck down.

TAKE Your Daughters to Work Day was a new nationwide initiative designed to encourage more women into industry.It was supported by Opportunity 2000, a high profile campaign aimed at increasing the quality and quantity of women’s participation in the workforce. At the time Laing was the only construction company to have signed up for Opportunity 2000.Laing staff and many parts of the businesses organised events and opened up selected sites to girls in the 11 to 15 age group. Team Spirit reported: “It makes good business sense to do so - we need the brain power and skills of both halves of the population.”In 1989 Martin Laing had set up a ‘Women in Laing’ project team. Young male and female managers, from different parts of the company, were invited to come up with a range of initiatives related to women’s employment in the business. They were supported by Brian Fitzgerald, chairman and Managing Director of Laing Scotland & Ireland.

Pictured top right: Schoolgirls being put to work at EPL’s Weston depot as part of Take Your Daughters To

Work Day.

PHOTO COMPETITION


Entries clockwise from top left:

Huntington Beach LA - John Farrow

Sorry we’re full... the 204 is right behind

- Steve Hobbs

On The Reef - Colin Turner

River Scene - Paul Smith

Everest Path - Phil Markall

Weasel in Weardale - Liz Howdon

Happy Lady Gardener at Furzely

- Audrey Hamer

PHOTO COMPETITION


The winner - Bamburgh Castle - Dave Thomson

In The Garage - Colin FoxKing Penguins - Michael HooperMexican Resident - David Markall

The winner is...ANOTHER close competition, but the judges chose a clear winner - David Thomson’s Bamburgh Castle.

Unfortunately, the image is the wrong shape to use on the front cover, so we have tried to give it as much prominence as we can. This Northumberland scene was captured in the late afternoon as the tide was receding. It was taken using a three-second delay, which is why the walker has inherent movement about it.

A number of judges praised the composition, scale and lighting and one added: “It made me wish I was that walker.”

Judges also highly recommended King Penguins ‘charming’ ‘pin sharp’ and ‘humourous’ and Everest Path ‘excellent contrast’, ‘composition’ and ‘appropriate to our times’.

HISTORICAL NEWS


Film shows for local history buffsTHERE was a double dose of Laing history backed by Company films courtesy of presentations by retiree John Clark.The Local History Society in Caddington, (CADDHIST), has over a 100 members, with just under 80 in attendance for a screening of Motorway, about the building of the M1. It was very well received and with the M1 just along the road (first full size motorway built in the UK), there was a good recollection from the attendees of the effects and the excitement at the time of such construction on their doorstep.John initially gave a short insight into Sir John Laing as a person, then went into the detail of the M1 construction. He showed the film in three parts and had Q&As in between. There was plenty of audience participation.A second presentation and film show about Coventry Cathedral was given to a Ladies Group at the church in Dunstable attended by John and wife Pat.

n Various films from the John Laing Collection including the Bull Ring, M6 and some of Sir John’s missionary work, can be viewed for free by signing up to the British Film Institute’s (BFI) player. For details go to: player.bfi.org.uk

A chain of workers transporting sandbags to breaches in the river wall following flooding on the construction site of Coryton Oil Refinery, Essex, taken in 1947

Last leg of Breaking New Ground projectDESPITE enforced hold ups caused by the Coronavirus outbreak, the Breaking New Ground project is still on course to deliver 10,000 historic John Laing photos, new films and educational materials.

Retirees have already contributed to films about Coventry Cathedral, Easiform Housing in Swindon and London Central Mosque and the final film - Building Britain - is due to be completed remotely this summer.

So far more than 8,600 historic images from the John Laing collection have been digitised as part of the project between JLCT and Historic England. These have been used as part of the educational workshops at schools for pupils living near Laing projects. It has given them a chance to see what these familiar landmarks looked like while they were being built and understand the process.

They even learned what it felt like to be on these sites by speaking directly

to some of the people who worked on them.

The final launch of pictures later this year will focus on ‘team spirit’ within the Company: staff outings, sports days, charity events and celebrity & sporting sponsorships. A full round up of the project and its legacy will appear in the next issue.

The Lanes Shopping Centre topping out in 1984 as Sir Martin Laing and Carlisle Mayor Trudy Whalley joined the site team atop the multi-storey car park

READERS’ NEWS


It was with deep regret that the organising team decided to cancel the annual Engineers and Architects reunion which was due to take place on Thursday the 19 March 2020.

This decision was taken due to the current world-wide Coronavirus problem and with concern for attendees based on the current age profile of the group.

As always the response from those intending to attend was excellent and Maccabi as usual were happy for us to use their facilities at what used to be the Laing Sports Club premises, with Velina all geared up to produce the excellent spread of food she provides each year.

In the event, it was reassuring that so many of the expected attendees sent messages of support at our decision to cancel the event, which was much appreciated.

The number of people who accepted our invitation to attend were as follows: David Balcombe, Dave Betterton, Ian Brixey, Richard Broadbent, Brydon Brown, Martin Chapman, Chris Chiverrell, John Clark, Alan Coakley, Brian Collins, Nick Cook, Derek Crowther, Steve Cunliffe, David Davies, Keith Dawson, Christopher Day, Debbie Dix, Peter Donaldson, Bob Dunkley, Mike Evans, Paul Firth, Dave Fisher, Dick Flude, Martin Foster, Duncan Gandy, Mike Gellatley, David Gordon, David Harrison, Norman Haste, Don Hussey, Ian Jarvis, John Keeton, Neil Kitchener, Thomas Lai, David Lloyd, Geoff Mead, Alex Mendoza, Alison Orton, Ron Pearce, Terry Pendril, Paul Petch, Mervyn Richards, David Scott, Andy Smith, Kingsley Smith, Met Stanley, Brian Starkey, Alec Tasker, John Taylor, Harish Unzia, John Vignoles, Paul West, Peter Westwood, Chris Wiltshire and George Wilsher.

It was nice to see some new attendees appearing on the list such as Mike Evans, Derek Crowther and Dick Flude and a great shame that what would have been their first reunion had to be cancelled. We look forward to seeing you at the next reunion.

We also received apologies from:Bernard Ainsworth, Marcelle Cater, Nigel Clark, Peter Coles, Richard Cullum, Stephen Dawson, Christine and Gordon Foster, Les Frost, Maurice Gatfield, David Heard, Mike Hooper, Vic Israel, Ros Joelson, Colin Ovens, Chris Pullen, Mike Silvey, John Tarbox, Marianne Tunnell, Chris Urbanowicz, Rod Wooderson and Linda York.

As history will now show, the cancellation of the Engineers and Architects Reunion was only the start of the big shut down in the United Kingdom and across the world, so we at least made the correct decision. It is so important now that we keep in touch with each other and especially with our more elderly colleagues to ensure that they continue to be in good health and are not in need of any assistance.

It is such a shame that we had to cancel this event, however every cloud has a silver lining in that:n Those people who were unable to attend this year will have another opportunity to attend when we plan the next one.

n This quiet spell of staying at home will help us to find all of the old photos of the sites we have previously worked on and of the courses we attended and the group photos we have which we can bring to the next reunion.n John will not need to go to the bank to change the Scottish bank notes which Neil Kitchener always brings with him every year!n We also wish Alex Mendoza a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY, as he was due to celebrate his 90th birthday just after the event and we think that a cake presentation was planned.

We were also so sad to hear of the death of Mervyn Ward, who was a regular attendee and we send our condolences to all of his family and friends.

Finally, we would like to send our thanks to London Maccabi for being so understanding in the cancellation of our booking and in particular to Velina Stoyanova for her help in this matter. Also special thanks to Debbie and Geoffrey Dix, for sorting out the name badges for everyone.

Alan CoakleyTo mark the occasion, Alan

reworked the classic Irish song McAlpine’s Fusiliers as John

Laing’s Fusiliers. You can see the Company connection to

the original song and Alan’s reworking of it at

www.laingpastandpresent.co.uk

Shot of a previous year’s gathering at the former Laing Sports Club

Engineers’ reunion called offTales of old friends, special birthdays, Scottish notes and a reworked song

READERS’ NEWS & LETTERS


Thank you to a true gentlemanDear Sir,I sadly read, in the Spring 2020 edition of the Retired Employees News, of the passing of Charles Coombes, formerly HR Manager with John Laing Construction. In the late 1990’s my two children were quite seriously ill, culminating in each of them needing 6 months or more of medical treatment, over a two year period, including 3 months each in Great Ormond Street Hospital. Charles provided very sympathetic and wise counselling over this period, including arranging for me to be sponsored for the two years by the John Laing Charitable Trust (JLCT), so that I could spend more time helping with the children. In addition, he arranged at the end of this period for me to receive redundancy, rather than have to travel two hours or more each way to Heathrow Terminal Five Project. This gave me more time to help with continuing treatment. Both children are very well now, aged 30 and 28. Charles was an absolute gentleman in his handling of the situation, and marvellous throughout, as were JLCT, especially in their generosity in supporting myself and my family, and I thank them both.

Tim DunfordEx – Southern Region.

Dear Sir,My father obtained permission from Sir John Laing in 1953 to use his canteen for a Sunday school.

In 1956 my headmaster took a post in Swindon and was given a house by the local authority on the Laing’s estate at Park. He then followed my father in commencing a Sunday School in the canteen. The numbers were huge and he told me that these were the happiest days of his life. His wife was a headmistress and they were a formidable team.

My headmaster was born in 1920 in Filey to staunch Methodist parents.

He was at Leeds University

when war came. He served in the Royal Navy. After the war he went onto Education. He became a confidant to both Margaret Thatcher and Shirley Williams when they were Secretary of State for Education.

He was a lay preacher who preached his first sermon in 1934. He continued up to his passing in 2018. A sermon is attached which gives some measure of the man.

All his sermons were left to me.This most gifted of men found his

happiest days in a Laing’s canteen.Martin Robins

n Examples of the sermons are on www.Laingpastandpresent.co.uk

Happy days in the Laing canteen

HWA Empire medal winner was ‘a gem’

The late Charles Coombes

Dear Sir,When I was an indentured student with Holloway Brothers I offered to work my Christmas holidays from college. I was aged about 18/19.

One year I was sent to the Dartford bridge contact working for Jack. He picked me up at South Wimbledon tube station at probably 6.30 am and my role was to prepare a programme for him to work to. I knew nothing about reinforced concrete bridges but he guided me in my task. On my final day I proudly presented him with my programme. He took one glance and put it in a drawer, never to be seen again.

The bridge was built for construction traffic involved in building Tilbury B power station (1961-67). When the power station construction was complete, the bridge was demolished. The power station was demolished in 2016.

Jack was vastly experienced, knew exactly what he was doing

and didn’t need my programme. But he was kind, modest, considerate and never shouted or got angry. He could carry out any task that cropped up on site. I’m sure he worked on the Mulberry Harbour used on D day.

He was a gem.Keith Good

n Jack McWhannell was featured in the Spring issue of REN after receiving a British Empire Medal in 1970.


READERS’ NEWS & LETTERS

THIS old Laing sign was spotted being used up near Carlisle and we are trying to put a date on it.The thin typeface for Laing was certainly in use after World War II and into the early 60s. However, it highlights centres at Glasgow, Carlisle and London. WE have found nothing in the archives which dates it. If you know, or have any suggestions about which era this sign is from, please let us know.

Can you suggest time of the signs?

Dear Sir,John Sulman’s tenacity in getting the perfect shot was the reason Laing photographs appeared more often than any other contractor’s in the sought-after Monday building and civil engineering page of The Times.Recently recruited as a press relations officer, I was sent to Bristol office to meet the regional director and the key staff. John had set up camera and tripod on the pavement opposite a newly-completed office block. I found him standing gazing skyward. Sometime later I found John still in situ. I just had to ask why. He said he was waiting for the clouds to clear the sky so the sun could show the building in best light.A quiet, unassuming man, John had a keen sense of humour. Reading the article in Retired Employees’ News brought many incidents to mind: In Glasgow for a ceremony at the Royal Infirmary extension, I found John having a break in a nearby garden and laughing his head off watching a drunk Glaswegian carrying his equally inebriated wife out of a pub.George Taylor, Devon, a former

manager of Group Public Relations Department.

Photographer’s perfect shots

JOHN LAING retiree Edwin King was featured on The One Show to talk about Coventry Cathedral as the city prepares to be European City of Culture in 2021.

The BBC show, which attracts up to five million viewers, was following up on Edwin’s appearance in a film as part of the Breaking New Ground (BNG) project sponsored by the John Laing Charitable Trust in partnership with Historic England.

Edwin got a job as an apprentice surveyor on the cathedral project and in the BNG film recalled being sent to the roof of the project to ask a question of the Foreman Stonemason on his first day.

He had to climb 90 feet of ladders only to find that the Foreman Stonemason had no idea what he was talking about. When he went back and told the man who had sent him, he said he had only sent him on the errand to check he was all right with heights!

Another man working on the project for John Laing was Joiner Pat Kenney.

As part of the Breaking New Ground project, both men went into St Osburg’s Catholic Primary

School in Coventry to answer questions from pupils who had been learning about the cathedral.

Pat brought original tools used on the project explaining they were not battery powered back then.

The One Show featured the cathedral on Tuesday June 2 and pointed out that Coventry Cathedral is ‘the jewel in the crown’ of the city.

They also explained how 100,000 children had given their pocket money to help pay for the stunning stained glass window, now known as the Children’s Window.

This film and the others featuring Easiform Housing in Swindon, London Central Mosque and Building Britain, will be available for retirees to view and be part of a legacy package of educational materials for schools around the country.

Cathedral the jewel in 2021 city of culture

Edwin King Pat Kenney


MAIN NEWSTEST YOUR BRAINS

With club gatherings cancelled - here are some puzzlesTRIVIA QUIZ1) How many lakes are there in the lake district?2) How many lakes are there in Scotland?3) What is a duel between three people called?4) Which country has the oldest continuously used national flag?5) What is the loudest animal on earth?6) What are baby owls called? (two acceptable answers)7) What is the space between windows called?8) How many different varieties of apples are there in the world?9) What is the collective noun for a group of toads?10) In what year was the first Wimbledon Tennis Championship held?11) What is the chemical symbol for mercury?12) What is the longest word you can form from just the top letters of a standard typewriter keyboard? (10 letters)13) How many bones do sharks have?14) Which are the only three films to have won the top five Oscars (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay)?15) How long has Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap been running in the West End?16) What are the five most populous countries in the world?17) what is the world’s most southerly capital city?18) Who was the first winner of I’m a Celebrity in 2002?19) How many years has Coronation Street been running?20) What was Fanny Cradock’s husband called?

QUIZ ANSWERS - 1) 1 - Bassenthwaite Lake - others are meres or waters. 2) 1 Lake of Mentieth - all others are lochs 3) A Truel 4) Denmark has been using the same flag design since 1625 5) Sperm whale, produces a clicking noise recorded at 230 decibels 6) Owlets or nestlings 7) Interfenestration 8) 7,500 9) A knot 10) 1877 11) hg 12) Proprietor 13) None 14) It Happened One Night (1934), One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975), and The Silence of the Lambs (1991). 15) 68 years 16) China 1.44 bn, India 1.348bn, USA 331m, Indonesia 274m and Pakistan 221m. 17) Wellington, New Zealand. 18) Tony Blackburn 19) 60 20) Johnnie.

1) Sly giggle2) High Class Thoroughfare3)Money Making Royalty4) Mother’s Local5) Clever folk6) Sport for princes7) Good Children get these8) Garden Flowers9) Assorted girls10) Edible fasteners11) Wobbly infants

12) Talk quietly13) Big bus14) Spin round15) 100% Au16) Big cats pub17) One who wanders18) Lots of parties19) Outside meal20) Noisy insects21) Sweet tooth cleaner22) Seaside stone

Can you identify the cryptic candy? This quiz was found by Elstree Retirement Club and featured at their 2020 New Year lunch.

1) Snickers 2) Quality Street 3) Mint imperials 4) Mars Bar 5) Smarties 6) Polo 7)Treats 8) Roses 9) Dolly Mixtures 10) Chocolate Buttons 11) Jelly Babies 12) Wispa 13) Double Decker 14) Twirl 15) All Gold 16) Lion Bar 17) Minstrel 18) Celebrations 19) Picnic 20) Humbugs 21) Candy floss 22) Rock

A) Chocolate Labrador B) Doberman C) Great Dane D) Husky E) Japanese Spitz F) West Highland White Terrier G) French Bull Dog H) German Poynter I) Pekingese J) Chow-Chow K) Beagles L) Bearded Collie M) Old English Sheep Dog N) Red Setter O) Australian Cattle Dog

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

Guess dog breed

MAIN NEWS


RETIREMENT CLUBS

ContactsCUMBRIAAlan Crowthert: 01228-528887 e: [email protected]

ELSTREEDoreen Butterfieldt: 020 8959 8324e: c/o [email protected]

LNER (North East)Brian Coppent: 01670 717488 e:[email protected]

NORTH WESTDave Markallt: 0161 498 0600 e: [email protected]

REAL (North London)Jennifer Israelt: 0208 440 4505e: [email protected]

REALM (Midlands) Roy Gillt: 0121 711 1802 e:[email protected]

SALTIRE (Scotland) Andy Waringt: 01698 427504 e: [email protected]

SOLARE (South West London)Bill Blamiret: 01737 553174 (Email c/o Chairman Les Hillman) e: [email protected]

SOUTH WEST Richard Shoreyt: 01454 412666 e: [email protected]

CLU

B C

ON

TAC

TS

Welfare: Mrs Heather AldridgeT: 020 8959 9683 / M:07920 020024Clubs & REN: Mr Alex FinkenrathT- 020 7901 3429 / M: 07921 831780

Funding: Mrs Teresa PetticanT - 020 7901 3231JLCT Office: 33 Bunns Lane, Mill Hill, London, NW7 2DX.

President’s letter gives clubs cheerWHILST all club gatherings had to be cancelled due to self-isolating and distancing measures, everyone has been keeping in touch including Sir Martin and Lady Stephanie Laing.

Stephanie decided to send members a brief summary of life in Malta during the coronavirus pandemic and say how sad she was that, for the first time since they began, the summer lunches had to be cancelled this year.

If you did not receive a copy of the letter, contact your club secretary.

Meanwhile, clubs have been keeping busy, checking up on fellow members they would normally be meeting regularly.

One club REAL even managed to organise an event using Zoom software so that people could take part from the comfort of their own homes.

The summer lunches, normally a highpoint in the clubs’ annual calendar, have been put off this year, but the John Laing Charitable Trust hopes that they will be back bigger and better than ever in 2021

JLCT Contacts

THE BIENNIAL meetings went ahead online this year - with committee members still able to debate key club issues.

Top of the agenda was to update the constitution, amending it to form a solid framework from which all clubs can continue to be run in the best interests of their memberships.

This included ensuring that carers who bring members to events they would not otherwise be able to attend do not have to pay the guest rate - if there is a fee.

Also among the matters up for discussion supplying the

key information venues now request for summer luncheon events. Measures have been agreed to ensure that all attendees continue to be fully safeguarded.

Clubs were reminded that members are free to apply to the John Laing Charitable Trust for small amounts of funding to support charities with which they are involved.

Last year JLCT helped all sorts of local and national charities that retirement club members are involved with.

This is especially important at a time when organisations are struggling to raise funds.

Biennial meetings virtually done!

Not taking any chances in Bristol, picture courtesy of David Batchelor

and arrangements are already being made to reserve venues.

Whilst no one knows what the future holds, or how long social distancing will continue, clubs are still making arrangements for their Christmas and New Year gatherings.

Members will be updated as soon as clubs have any new information.


MAIN NEWSANNIVERSARIES AND BIRTHDAYS

Golden - 50February 7

Glyn & Joan WitterDavid & Joan

Singleton

February 21Chris & John Wilson

February 28Colin & Liz Ashton

Joan & Dennis Connor

Sapphire - 65February 26

Beryl & Dennis Wilmer

March 5William & Mary

Beaty

It is business as usual for the special anniversary pages. If you would like us to include a picture and write-up of your special anniversary, whether it is a major birthday or marriage milestone, please contact

us in good time. You can send us some words, or we are happy to talk to you over the telephone. The Autumn issue will be out in September, and the closing date for submissions is July 31, 2020.

DOUG & SHEILA FISHERDIAMOND WEDDINGJune 2, 2020

DOUG and Sheila were only a couple of months into their marriage when he was reminded that he had to go away and do his national service!

Having completed a joinery apprenticeship for a local firm, Doug had all but forgotten about it, but was sent hundreds of miles away to Devon and then Bovingdon Camp.

He and Sheila had met at a dance in Wigtoft, only a few miles away from where they live today.

However, even in the days of steam railways, if Doug could get away at lunchtime on a Friday, he was back home for 6pm more often than not with his 48-hour pass.

After his NS, his former company had gone out of business, so he worked with a formed colleague on small building jobs and making coffins - which he did not enjoy.

His first connection with Laing’s came in 1971 when he worked as a sub contractor on a chemical works at Seal Sands. He later worked on a water treatment works for Degremont Laing and finally joined the staff in 1974 at

Holter Water Treatment Works.After that Doug worked around

the country, especially enjoying his five years at Sizewell B. “I wasn’t keen on going there at first because I wasn’t sure about the whole nuclear thing, but it was fine and the happiest time in my career,” he said.

He went onto work on the Second Severn Crossing at Christmas 1992, but his time there was cut short by a heart attack and a subsequent bypass operation.

“I could not carry on working, in fact I was given only five more years, but the NHS did a really good job and here I am 25 years later,” he said. “Laing’s also looked after me well.”

Doug’s wife Sheila spent her working life as a very skilled machinist making curtains, eider downs and loose fitting covers for sofas and chairs.

Doug retired in 2000 and the couple have three children, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren, three living in Australia.

He said: “Obviously the lockdown has stopped us organising any big celebrations, but we are in close contact with the family through face time, email and the telephone.”

Diamond days for Doug and Sheila

Diamond - 60March 19

John & Maureen Butler

MAIN NEWS


ANNIVERSARIES AND BIRTHDAYS

BIRTHDAYS

95th

JOHN & MEGAN TAYLORDIAMOND WEDDINGMarch 26, 2020

JOHN was working on the Bala Lake scheme and playing for the local football team when he met local lass Megan.

She followed the football and they also met up at a local old time dancing school.

John said: “There wasn’t much else to do there, a cinema opened two nights a week, and apart from my football training, there was nothing going on for young people.”

He had started with Laing’s as an articled pupil at Bold Power Station in the costing department, before moving into civil engineering.

John stayed in the production side of things throughout his 40-year career with the Company, but moved around a bit.

The last period was spent with Holloway White Allom, from which he finally retired in 1992.

Sport has played a large part in John and Megan’s lives and he has only recently stepped down as President of Dunstable Tennis Club, where they spent many happy and healthy hours.

The apple has not fallen far from the

tree either.Their son in Canada has four boys, all

of whom love to play ice hockey. One even won a college scholarship for his talents and is now in the sights of Tampa Bay Lightening as a goalkeeper.

Their daughter is still in the UK and her son and daughter are both mad about cricket and play regularly for local sides. The granddaughter has played for Buckinghamshire junior girls team(U11) for last two years.

Unfortunately, all their celebration plans had to be cancelled as the lockdown was imposed just before they had the chance to celebrate, but they are looking forward to getting together with family and friends as soon as it is possible.

Bala meeting to 60-year marriage

February 14Ken ColeApril 30

Fred Green

90thFebruary 3

Scott WestlandFebruary 4 Jack CaseyFebruary 19

George Cook-BellMarch 4

Eileen RogersMarch 16

Alan ThorpeMarch 18

Hugh GallagherMarch 25

Fred GarwoodApril 3

Geoff TravisApril 12

Granville EdwardsApril 19

Margaret ParkerApril 22

Joe CrozierApril 30

Bill Stewart

100thApril 10

Monica Jones

The couple could not resist capturing this picture of a real estate agency bearing John’s name whilst in Nice on a cruise to

WILLIAM (WALLY) & JEAN WICKINGSDIAMOND WEDDING 21 May 2020

WALLY started work with Laing Homes in Eastbourne in the same month he married Jean and worked for two years until the contract finished.

He rejoined the Company a year later at Polegate Sussex, during this period he was invited to work for the Civil Engineering Division to take a management role on a small power station in Hastings and joined the monthly paid staff. He said: “From then on I worked on various contracts around the country until retirement. It has been a pleasure to work and meet many friendly and dedicated colleagues and people around the country.”

The couple sent an image taken ‘in splendid isolation’ during the lockdown.

Homes was where their hearts were


MAIN NEWS

Maurice Ashbridge, formerly Superintending QS in Laing Scotland, died 18 February. He was 87 and retired in 1990 after 41 years’ service.

Gilbert Atkinson, formerly a Plasterer with Laing Northern, died 8 March. He was 87 and retired in 1986 after 39 years’ service.

John Bourne, formerly Superintending Estimator Laing Northern, died 14 February. He was 72 and retired in 2001 after 31 years’ service.

Finbar Carroll, formerly Regional Electrician Laing North West, died 23 March. He was 93 and retired in 1992 after 37 years’ service.

William Cowin, formerly Deputy Sales Manager at Research and Development, died 18 March. He was 87 and retired in 1983 after 24 years’ service.

David Edwards, formerly Estimator with ESK Manufacturing, died 5 March. He was 87 and retired in 1996 after 16 years’ service.

Hector Eugene, formerly General Operative with Laing South West, died 21 February. He was 81 and retired in 1996 after 33 years’ service.

Donald Foote, formerly Site Manager Laing Homes, died 21 February. He was 88 and retired in 1990 after 33 years’ service.

John Forster, formerly General Operative with Laing Northern, died 27 April. He was 74 and retired in 2000 after 26 years’ service.

Elliott Hall, formerly Administration Manager Laing Northern, died 1 April. He was 89 and retired in 1984 after 30 years’ service.

Mike Hodge, formerly Electrician at EPL Bristol, died 20 April. He was 82 and retired in 2001 after 33 years’ service.

Illtyd Hughes, formerly Superintending Purchaser for Laing South West, died 28 February. He was 90 and retired in 1990 after 44 years’ service.

Ken Hughes, formerly Marketing Assistant Laing Midlands, died 2 March. He was 90 and retired in 1994 after 18 years’ service.

Denise Karrell, formerly Secretary for Strategic Planning, died 13 March. She was 73 and retired in 2006 after 33 years’ service.

Colin King, formerly Site Manager with HWA, died 4 March. He was 86 and retired in 1994 after 37 years’ service.

Alan Kirkwood, formerly Accounts Superviser Laing Scotland, died 7 February. He was 93 and retired in 1986 after 19 years’ service.

Thomas Lord, formerly Principal Architect with LTG, died 18 February. He was 87 and retired in 1995 after 31 years’ service.

Geoff McKie, formerly Contracts Accountant North West Region, died 22 October 2019 (late notification). He was 76 and retired in 1999 after 21 years’ service.

Bill Malcolm, formerly Marketing Manager South Eastern Region, died 13 April. He was 102 and retired in 1979 after 44 years’ service.

John Monagle, formerly Plant Fitter with EPL, died 15 March. He was 85 and retired in 1994 after 35 years’ service.

Ron Newton, formerly Estimating Director Laing Midlands, died 7 April. He was 89 and retired in 1990 after 43 years’ service.

Alf Peters, formerly Accounts Clerk LTG, died 30 March. He was 89 and retired in 1995 after 28 years’ service.

Alan Procter, formerly Accounts Supervisor Laing North East, died 24 April. He was 95 and retired in 1988 after 24 years’ service.

Ted Purcell, formerly Project Manager Laing London, died 25 March. He was 88 and retired in 1991 after 27 years’ service.

In Memoriam

IN MEMORIAM

MAIN NEWS


IN MEMORIAM

WILLIAM ‘Bill’ Malcolm was born in the Glasgow suburb of Maryhill on 10th October 1917.

During his 44-year career with the Company, Bill was a long term member of Arkley Golf Club.

His love of golf began soon after his family moved to St Andrews in Fife ‘The Home of Golf’.

Within a very short space of time, Bill was taking part in the Scottish Junior Golf Championships. That was not the extent of his sportng prowess. Bill was a keen and able diver and he was a reserve for the Great Britain diving team at the Berlin Olympics of 1936.

When he left school Bill spent

Robert ‘Fred’ Ramsay, formerly Site Manager Laing Northern, died 12 April. He was 88 and retired in 1991 after 33 years’ service.

Cliff Skinner, formerly Joiner South West Region, died 18 February. He was 95 and retired in 1990 after 35 years’ service.

Alan Swindells, formerly Project Manager Laing Midlands, died 18 February. He was 87 and retired in 1992 after 31 years’ service.

Dick Turner, formerly Logistics Manager Laing Management, died 11 April. He was 90 and retired in 1995 after 20 years’ service.

Stan Utting, formerly Building Manager John Laing International, died 5 February. He was 90 and retired in 1985 after 30 years’ service.

Mervyn Ward, formerly Personnel Manager with John Laing Construction, died 17 March. He was 83 and retired in 1992 after 28 years’ service.

Timothy Watson, formerly Engineering and Services Director EPL, died 3 April. He was 69 and retired in 2001 after 26 years’ service.

Malcolm Wright, formerly QS with Laing Civils, died 17 April. He was 72 and retired in 2001 after 35 years’ service.

A long life with John Laing

two years working as a draughtsman for a firm of architects, after which he joined John Laing as an apprentice, where his father also worked.

Within three years of Bill joining Laing’s, the Second World War was declared. In the month before the outbreak of war, Bill joined the Territorials and as soon as the declaration came he was called up. He was commissioned into the Royal Engineers and subsequently served with the Bengal Sappers and Miners in India – where he became fluent in Urdu. He also served in Iraq, Kurdistan, Palestine, Egypt and Italy. His time in Italy during the war was spent building bridges and roads and on the hazardous business of clearing minefields and booby traps.

Towards the end of the war Bill was on three months leave in the UK. It was on this leave that he met Fay and within three weeks he proposed to her and they were married in Hendon on 15th March 1946.

Bill returned to John Laing and moved with them to build houses in Swindon. In 1948 he moved to Lusaka in what was then Northern Rhodesia but which is now Zambia. This was followed by Johannesburg in South Africa – where sons Stephen and Iain were born. The family returned to London in 1959 and moved to Mill Hill where Elizabeth was born.

Bill continued his work with John Laing, acting as site and area agent for both road and housing projects and for building at Mill Hill School. After a long and successful career, he retired in 1979. His connection with John Laing didn’t end there. He was a founder member of the REAL retirement club.

His daughter Elizabeth said: “Dad must have been one of the last people left to have actually worked with Sir John. He used to like to tell stories of how Sir John would inspect sites and pick up any nails that had been dropped, he always knew exactly how much the company was paying for nails and hated any waste!”

Bill celebrating his 100th birthday just over two years ago

GENERAL HELP

LONELINESSThe Silver Line operates a free confidential helpline for older people 24 hours a day - seven days per week. They also offer telephone and letter friendship schemes.Contact: Helpline: 0800 4 70 80 90www.thesilverline.org.uk

HOME / LIVING

A charity run site providing free advice on elderly care, including specialist directories & information on nursing homes and residential care homes, as well as sheltered housing, extra care housing and retirement villages, across the UK. Also providing over 2,000 sales and lettings vacancies every week.Contact: Only through website:www.housingcare.org

Care Quality CommissionInspects and regulates health and social care services. They publish findings, including ratings, to help choose care. Contact: Tel: 03000 616161www.cqc.org.uk

RETIREMENT CONTACTS LIST

The Government advice website (www.gov.uk) has all the information you will ever need about benefits; TV licenses; passports; tax and all State-run services.

If you are not online you will have to contact individual departments.

Commonly called numbers:

HMRC (tax /income / pensions) - 0300 200 3300

Dept of Health and Social Care: - 020 7210 4850.

Helping people plan ahead to prepare for the end of life. How to talk about it, plan for it, and record their wishes.Contact: Tel: 0800 999 2434www.compassionindying.org.uk

National charity focused on helping older people to enjoy independent living. Wide range of free help advice publications.Contact: Tel: 0800 055 6112www.independentage.org

WWW.GOV.UK

CORONAVIRUS HELP:GENERAL INFO:This is updated regaularly at the Government website:www.gov.uk/coronavirus

If you are showing symptoms which might be consistent with coronavirus, or any other seri-ous medicinal concerns, call NHS Direct: for advice Tel: 111

Carers UK makes life easier for carers. Across the UK 6.5 million adust are carers supporting a loved one who is older, disabled or ill.For a helpline call back, fill in the online form, or if you do not have access to the internet, go through the head office:Tel:020 7378 4999Web: www.carersuk.org

Providing support and respect for anyone with mental health problems.Infoline: 0300 123 3393Web:www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans are unable to offer their face-to-face service during the coronavirus outbreak, but have a lot of help and information available on their website. Contact: Tel: 116 123Web: www.samaritans.org

News 2020 web... · 2020. 6. 17. · MAIN NEWS 2 John Laing Retired Employees’ NEWS CONTENTS...

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