Under The Roof Avonside Group staff newsletter - March 2019

UNDER THE ROOF p ISSUE 09
MARCH 2019












UNDER THE ROOF




Avonside’s In-House Branch-Wide Newsletter




A plea for a INSIDE
THIS ISSUE

transparent Brexit u GROUP MANAGING

DIRECTOR, TONY
BURKE

u NOTABLE PROJECTS
TONY BURKE u AVONSIDE AWARD

SEASON
Group Managing Director u STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS


u NEW STAFF
APPOINTMENTS

u TRAINING EVENTS
u APPRENTICE
SPOTLIGHT
u TRADE EVENTS
u ROOFS FROM MY
TRAVELS PHOTOS
u CHARITY CORNER

u MORE STAFF FUN
u THE AVONSIDE
FANTASY FOOTBALL
LOWDOWN!























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REGULAR READERS OF THIS COLUMN WILL ACKNOWLEDGE

THAT WHILST I HAVE MADE SEVERAL REFERENCES TO THE
BREXIT PROCESS OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, THEY HAVE
USUALLY BEEN LINKED TO ANOTHER ISSUE AND THE

COMMENTS HAVE BEEN DRAWN TO SUPPORT OR CONTRADICT
A PARTICULAR LINE OF THOUGHT.
—




With this month’s column, I intend to break result, sees Construction as a less desirable
from that practice and talk directly about the sector for investment than was the case pre
impending withdrawal from the EU (be it a - Carillion.
Deal or No Deal Brexit) and some of the The implications for the supply chain are
potential practical implications for ongoing uncertainty and a remorseless
Contractors operating within the pressure on margins, which are no more
Construction sector. sustainable at any link in the supply chain, be

We have all been aware of the failings that they Contractor, Distributor or Manufacturer.
led to the undoing of Carillion in recent times, However, because of the sheer scale of
and that the business model they pursued of operations for Main Contractors and
high-revenue, low-margin long-term Manufacturing when set against the
contracts was deeply flawed. In fact, the fragmented nature within the trade specific
business model resulted in Carillion’s contracting sector, we as ‘Sub’ contractors
ultimate demise, and the increased cost of inevitably become the pinch point where

unfinished contract to the client as margins come under the most strain.
alternative Contracting organisations refused Manufacturers will pass on any increased
to pick up mid-contract based upon the costs directly to their customer base, and in
original terms agreed to, resulted in a ‘lose: all likelihood use the opportunity to enhance
lose’ scenario. their returns, whilst Main Contractors will use
Carillion were the most extreme and the tender process to drive competing
high-profile casualty of this approach to contractors – ever more desperate to secure
market, but they were by no means the only work – into unwise and unsustainable levels
business to employ this strategy, and in fact, of competition, factors we have seen many

although the most extreme version, times before.
Carillion’s business model is one that is still So, we have a sector that is in danger of
widespread within the sector which, as a engaging in a ‘race to the bottom’ which

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places the security and sustainability of every Failure to engage in negotiating contracts
business operating in the sector under leads to a reduction in pipeline and future
pressure. That suggests that the market is workflows, willingness to engage inevitably
not working properly, ultimately because the increases risk.
client is not being asked to pay the There are numerous potential
appropriate price. implications in this scenario, some
I am not suggesting that we do not or contractors may fail. Those with the deepest

should not operate in a competitive pockets can potentially strengthen their
marketplace – we most certainly do, and position due to stronger balance sheets. It
many organisations are able to grow and may lead to a surge of consolidation within
prosper within it, but when major the sector. Another alternative is that
establishments take business that businesses and skills within the trade
undermines their very existence then contractors will retreat into safer trading
something needs to change. sectors with less onerous trading conditions.
The truth is that nobody can foresee what
WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO the outcome will be and that all the scenarios
WITH BREXIT? identified will occur to a greater or lesser

It relates to the inevitable uncertainty that degree, but what will take place is uncertainty
will arise, whether we experience an orderly and change.
or disorderly withdrawal. The uncertainty Whilst sectors continually evolve and
makes planning more difficult, yes but not change out of necessity and this is no bad
impossible. thing – the plea to manufacturers and
But the reality is that it is difficult to suppliers is greater transparency of

secure projections on continuity of supply management plans, likely implications and
and price stability from many suppliers. This greater engagement on the likely implications
in turn makes it difficult for Distribution to as we go through what will inevitably be a
commit with confidence. year of challenges and changes.
So, what is the logical outcome of such a The political class have demonstrated an
scenario? You’ve guessed it – the contractor, almost limitless capacity to mismanage the
who has no transparency on the supply Brexit process through a mixture of
issues highlighted (availability and price partisanship, secrecy and self-interest - we in
continuity) has to engage in long- and the Construction sector should take a

medium-term contracts which demand both different path.
and penalise any inability to comply.












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NOTABLE PROJECTS

Avonside Cobsen-Davies


Commercial & Industrial Roofing’s


Award-Worthy Residential

Development





AVONSIDE COBSEN-DAVIES COMMERCIAL &
INDUSTRIAL ROOFING ARE PROUD TO HAVE
NEGOTIATED THE COMPLEXITIES THAT ARE
INHERENT WHEN DEALING WITH A MULTI-
DISCIPLINED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT. THE
PROJECT IN QUESTION SAW THEM ACTING AS
SUBCONTRACTORS IN VICTORIA DRIVE, SOUTH
LONDON.
—
With McLaren acting as the main contractor and
Scott Brownrigg Associates serving as architects,
the project involved the creation of 110 new
homes, which were a combination of townhouses
and apartments with blocks of varying levels up to
seven stories. The client, Lendlease required
contractor designs, drawings and the
coordination of design to be delivered to spec, on
time and within budget.
Avonside’s scope of works consisted of the Brown Roof and paving to high-level areas.
supply and installation of 5000m2 of a Bauder Similarly, the same build-up and waterproofing
warm encapsulated 3-layer waterproofing system, system was installed to roofs and terraces,
with laid to falls (LTF) insulation. This was installed inclusive of decking to a timber substrate on
to decking, terraces and balconies on a concrete multi-level three to four storey townhouses.
substrate to a multi-level seven storey concrete Also, 1000m2 of Pre-laq (Zinc effect) cladding
frame (apartment block) including elements of was supplied and installed to a proportion of the
vertical and mansard surfaces of the townhouses
and overruns. PCC aluminium copings were
supplied and installed to parapets throughout the
scheme. PPC aluminium rainwater goods were
provided and fitted throughout the scheme too.
Additionally, a man-safe handrail system was
supplied and installed at a high level on the
apartment block, whilst fixed roof lights and lead
works were supplied and installed.

>>>








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CLADDING ISSUES OVERCOME
The major consideration for the installation of
Pre-laq sheet to vertical cladding, mansard roofs
and staircase overruns was the aesthetic of the
finish. The appearance of the vertical lines was an
architectural concern so each elevation, mansard
or overrun was detailed for approval utilising
differing sheet widths installed in such a manner
as to appear to be of a regular size when viewed
from various vantage points across the site.
Another challenge was the design and
detailing of the structural fixing and bracketry in
order to weather penetrations to the Pre-laq
cladding. Both Juliet balconies and dividing
screens to terraces required careful consideration
WATERPROOFING CHALLENGES to ensure both the rhythm of the standing seams
OVERCOME and the clean flat facing surfaces were not
The Victoria Drive project stands out due to all the punctured with fixing points and supporting
different types of challenges that the teams found elements which would distract the eye.
solutions for.
The flat roof weathering comprised of a warm
3 layer felt build-up with LTF insulation and
finished with decking to create an accessible roof.
When it came to waterproofing, the design in
several localised areas needed an increase in the
thickness of the originally specified insulation to
achieve the desired U-Value (thermal
performance) but any increase in thickness would
have compromised certain details at door
thresholds and upstand heights.
In order to mitigate the height issue, a high-
performance insulate was introduced to these
areas to achieve the correct U-value, whilst
maintaining consistent levels of waterproofing
throughout the scheme.
LOGISTICAL PROBLEM-SOLVING
Thanks to a fast-paced programme, our
operatives often worked alongside neighbouring
trades simultaneously with other trades operating
in close proximity to our works. The team’s worry
with this was the condition of the delicate
surfaces, such as cladding and finished
waterproofing. To ensure following trades were
taking suitable care when working adjacent to
these areas was a constant supervisory challenge.
Understandably, McLaren treated such
instances as a priority and ensured surfaces were
adequately protected once complete and as
works progressed behind our operatives and in
the vicinity of our installation, until such time as >>>







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the works were complete and access was utilised for more permanent storage. Materials
subsequently struck. were then lifted into place or from roof-to-roof by
The Quality Assurance process was naturally a means of mobile or tower crane, as required. The
high priority on a project of this complexity. storage on the roof posed the additional logistical
Assisted by the manufacturers and using challenge for the team to ensure the sequencing
approved labour, with the support of both full- of the works considered the need for storage.
time site supervisors and a project specific The logistics of the cranes in such instances
contract management team, including AGS’s became a daily challenge, with the very high
rigorous in-house Quality Assurance process, the demand between the various trades.
quality of workmanship was routinely inspected Daily coordination, logistics and delivery plan
and reviewed, which involved the signing off and meetings were held by McLaren to prioritise crane
checking of each area sequentially as it was time and review access considerations and the
completed. accompanying delivery process throughout the
The site was also located in a densely programme to ensure a steady flow of materials
populated residential area, with a school and care to all trades, as required to maintain high
home immediately opposite which posed various standards, keep to schedule and ensure ongoing
logistical issues. One of the most significant client satisfaction.
challenges was a lack of space for both deliveries
at the front of the site and extremely limited Congratulations Avonside Cobsen-
storage areas for materials, plant and equipment Davies for navigating such a
on site. This, coupled with a quickly evolving site
logistics plan, meant that the sequencing complex, large-scale project!
deliveries and lifting were a constant
management challenge.

SUCCESSFUL SOLUTIONS
Deliveries were required on a ‘just in time’ basis
and broken down so each load was specific to a
particular block and roof/section. Materials were
only permitted on the ground for a limited
amount of time before they were lifted to roof
level where the completed roof decks were





A New Roof for

Tameside Hospital

Courtesy of Ploughcroft

Halifax Residential

Roofing


Ploughcroft have enjoyed being employed as
Principal Contractors for a project which currently
sees them delivering a large-scale re-roof for
Tameside Hospital. See the progress of the
project in the collage opposite!






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NOTABLE PROJECTS

Avonside Offering Roughcasting Contracts in

the New Build Residential Sector


It’s not just roofs that Avonside excel at!




We are delighted to have our new sector within BENEFITS OF CASTING A BUILDING’S
the Scottish Avonside group of qualified WALLS IN ROUGHCAST
Supervision and Operatives undertaking Roughcast, otherwise known as pebble dashing
roughcasting contracts in the new build or dry-dashing, is the most widely used exterior
residential sector. At the moment our teams are render finish in Scotland. A popular choice with
operating across Scotland, covering Ayrshire, new house builders, local authority
North and South Lanarkshire and Strathclyde. refurbishment and regeneration projects, it’s a
fast process offering a wide variety of colour
choices and decorative finishes and textures and
is very cost effective.
Rendering a property can dramatically
improve the appearance of the facade of any
building and we have many examples of projects
where we have transformed a variety of
buildings using a range of traditional and
contemporary render solutions. Just check out
these roughcasting projects we undertook for
Stewart Milne Group in Houston, Renfrewshire!
(pictured).









































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AVONSIDE AWARD SEASON

Avonside Win at First Ever National


Pitched Roofing Awards!



IT WAS ALL CHEERS AND CELEBRATION the music school, requested new handmade roof
TOWARDS THE END OF LAST YEAR, WITH tiles instead of ones made by machines due to
AVONSIDE SECURING AN AWARD IN THE their tone and texture variations.
‘COMMERCIAL PROPERTY APPLICATION USING Tudor Roof Tile Co. utilised traditional
ROOF TILES’ CATEGORY ALONGSIDE TUDOR handmaking methods, ideal for the heritage and
ROOF TILE CO. AT THE FIRST EVERY NATIONAL architectural markets, to produce high
PITCHED ROOFING AWARDS, PRESENTED BY RCI specification clay roof tiles. They provided a range
MAGAZINE. of bespoke tiles that varied in shape and size. The
— intricate triangular pattern on the roof of the
Attended by Group Managing Director, Tony concert hall and rehearsal rooms was achieved
Burke, the awards were a glamorous affair held at from the striking shapes of the bespoke roof tiles
The Midland Hotel in Manchester on Friday 30th alone. To create the complicated geometric
November, with comedienne and actress Kerry pattern, the roof tiles were all produced by hand
Godliman bringing in the laughs as she hosted the to a size of 400mm long and 100mm wide, with a
evening. curvature that was within very small tolerances.
The project that Avonside worked on that was Altogether, six different designs of customised
recognised at the Pitched Roofing Awards was tiles, in two colour-ways of each were applied.
roofing work on the new £10million music school The manufacturer worked with the architect
at King’s College School in Wimbledon. As the to create the visually pleasing arrowhead tile
school is located in a conservation area, the profile.
building’s look and feel is very sympathetic to its Working alongside drainage, solar and plant
surroundings, and the roof is no different. contractors, Avonside took care of all aspects of
the flat roof coverings and metal copings at the
ONLY THE BEST BESPOKE HANDMADE interface between the flat and pitched areas.
ROOF TILES School operations, a small site and the
The King’s College School project was an excellent logistics of managing material deliveries were all
example of different companies working together factors that had to be overcome in the challenging
for a spectacular result. Hopkins Architects project.
Partnership, who were responsible for designing The judges commented: “The tiling pattern on
this project is beautiful. It was good to see the
tiles being used creatively, and the fact that it was
completely spoke to the building worked very
strongly in its favour. The steep pitch lends itself
to the design and it just looks great.”





















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AVONSIDE AWARD SEASON

Ploughcroft’s Director Chris Hopkins


Wins ‘Outstanding Contribution of the

Year’ at Pitched Roofing Awards





THANKS TO HIS ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITHIN THE ROOFING
SUPPORT FOR RAISING THE STANDARDS WITHIN INDUSTRY
THE ROOFING INDUSTRY, CHRIS HOPKINS WON His entrepreneurial streak also saw him partner
THE ‘OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION OF THE with a leading safety manufacturer to develop a
YEAR’ AT RCI MAGAZINE’S INAUGURAL PITCHED new safety device called The Roof Anchor, which
ROOFING AWARDS. is now old online nationwide. Designed to reduce
— the time roofing companies spend erecting
The judges commented: “During his career to scaffolding for small jobs, The Roof Anchor is a
date, Chris has contributed to making a visible harness, roof grab and roof anchor device that
difference within the roofing industry. Going attaches to the timber rafters or trusses, fitting
above and beyond, Chris promotes good practice any roof type. In most cases, the device saves the
and has experienced just about everything the money that would normally be spent on
industry could throw at him. Chris continues to scaffolding but still maintains safety.
lead by example and act with professionalism and
integrity at all times.”

IMPROVING THE AVAILABLE PROVISION OF
ROOFING TRAINING
The “visible difference within the roofing industry”
the judges refer to include Chris establishing his
own City & Guilds accredited roofing training
school in a bid to raise the standards of training
being offered within the industry. Further
improving the provision of training available, Chris
teamed up with the NFRC and Construction Skills
in 2006 to develop a high-quality training course
to teach roofers the key competencies in installing
solar PV and solar thermal systems. The solar
course is now formally recognised by the City &
Guilds C.A.A and is an official NVQ qualification.
Brilliant work throughout what is
PROPELLING THE SOLAR INDUSTRY definitely a colourful and successful
FORWARD career, Chris!
Ever the advocate for the solar industry, Chris was
invited onto the government’s Green Construction • More congratulations are in order for Ploughcroft
Board to represent the interests of small (Halifax) – Residential Roofing as they secured
businesses, after raising the solar industry’s themselves a Best of Houzz 2019 Service badge at the
profile by taking on the challenge of doing battle beginning of the year. This means Ploughcroft were
with the Dragons in 2012, leaving the room rated at the highest level for client satisfaction by the
victorious with an investment from Leo Paphitis Houzz community of homeowners and home
and Deborah Meaden. improvement professionals.





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AVONSIDE AWARD SEASON

Avonside Cobsen-Davis Enters


Large-Scale Project Category of NFRC

UK Roofing Awards 2019




AS ONE OF THE LARGEST SPECIALIST ROOFING With McLaren acting as the main contractor
CONTRACTORS IN BRITAIN PROVIDING and Scott Brownrigg Associates serving as
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS ALL UNDER ONE architects, the project involved the creation of 110
ROOF, IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT WE HAVE A new homes, which were a combination of
PROJECT OR TWO WE’RE PROUD TO SUBMIT FOR townhouses and apartments with blocks of
THE UK ROOFING AWARDS 2019, HOSTED BY varying levels up to seven stories. The client,
THE NFRC. Lendlease required contractor designs, drawings
— and the coordination of design to be delivered to
The UK Roofing Awards span a variety of roofing spec, on time and within budget.
disciplines including Single Ply Roofing, Roof See the Notable Projects section of the
Tiling, Heritage Roofing, Lead Roofing and Green newsletter to find out more about the
Roofing. Overcoming challenges, aesthetics, waterproofing and cladding challenges the team
Health and Safety, quality of workmanship and had to overcome, whilst navigating logistical and
environmentally friendly factors are all aspects managerial issues.
taken into consideration when the judging panel
make their decisions.
Running from October to January each year,
submissions are short-listed in March, cumulating
in a glamorous awards ceremony and celebration
on 10th May 2019 at InterContinental London, the
O2 at which the winners will be announced.

LARGE SCALE PROJECT ENTRY
Avonside Cobsen-Davies Commercial & Industrial
Roofing are delighted to be submitting a multi-
disciplined residential development they acted as
subcontractors on in Victoria Drive, South London
for the Large-Scale Project (over £250K) category.



AVONSIDE EDINBURGH RESIDENTIAL
ROOFING ARE ALSO RECOGNISED
We’re also pleased to announce that Avonside
Edinburgh Residential Roofing, who won the Roof
Slating Award at the NFRC Scottish Roofing
Contractor of the Year Awards last October for
their work on the Dalbeattie Learning Campus
project, are automatically through to the UK
Roofing Awards 2019!








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UNDER THE ROOF





STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS

Commercial Feedback


Questionnaire Reveals Positive


Results for 2018




WE’RE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE
AVERAGE FEEDBACK SCORE FROM OUR
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY WAS A
CONSISTENT AND STRONG 88% THROUGHOUT
2018!
—
Once a customer places an order with any of our
branches they are automatically sent a
straightforward survey. The questionnaire
comprises of 8 questions in which the recipient
ranks Avonside’s performance in a particular area
out of 10, with 1 being ‘strong disagree’ and 10
being ‘strongly disagree’. We also welcome
additional customer comments at the end of the
survey.
branches are reviewed.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE We have seen an incredible 81% increase in
QUESTIONNAIRE? customer engagement through our surveys,
The aim of the survey is to capture how well our providing us with valuable insights.
branches’ commercial/sales departments A customer feedback dashboard has now
performed across different areas. So we are able been created, which staff can view on our internal
to establish how we can continually improve the SalesForce System. Branches which secured a
service we deliver, these areas include: score of 40% or lower cause a non-conformance
• customer engagement, warning to flag-up, which results in an Internal
• understanding of customer requirements and Quality Review with the aim of enhancing
whether this understanding was reflected in the performances and standards.
bid,
• if regular communication between the BDM/ BUT WHICH BRANCHES FAIRED THE BEST
Estimator and the customer was regular and IN THE COMMERCIAL FEEDBACK
effective, CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY?
• if customers were given efficient responses to The top performing branches who certainly don’t
their queries, have to worry about Internal Quality Reviews are:
• whether the tender was submitted on time and (drum roll!)
• whether, based on their experience, customers 1) SM Roofing (Walsall) Residential Roofing
would use Avonside again for their future Feedback score: 100%
tendering projects.
2) Ploughcroft Halifax Residential Roofing
Brilliantly, over 40% of our customers rated us Feedback score: 95%
above 90% for overall customer satisfaction! This
is a remarkable statistic, considering all Avonside 3) Avonside Honiton Residential Roofing >>>
Feedback score: 95%




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NEW STAFF APPOINTMENTS


4) Avonside Southampton Residential Roofing At Avonside we thrive because of our workforce and our
Feedback score: 95% workforce is a growing one! We’d like to wish a warm
welcome to the following new additions who have joined
5) Avonside Midlands Flat Roofing our valued staff since November!
Feedback score: 89%
• Jake Campbell – Apprentice Roofer – joined Avonside
Wigan Residential Roofing on 5th November 2018.
Avonside Group Services’ Systems and Integration
Director, Kyle Burke said: “Honestly, the • Tommy O’Neil – Apprentice Roofer – joined Avonside
introduction of a passive means of gathering Braintree Residential Roofing on 12th November 2018.
customer feedback was initially met with some • Robbie Leech – Trainee Estimator – joined Avonside
uncertainty. There is always a level of discomfort Wigan Residential Roofing on 10th December 2018.
when inviting criticism, particularly in an industry • John Carter – Contracts Manager – joined Avonside
with as many factors for success as construction. Colchester/Essex Residential Roofing on 11th December
“Whilst there’s always room for improvement, 2018.
I think the results show the care and commitment • Scott Lusk – Contracts Supervisor – joined Avonside
we have for our customers, which is something all Glasgow Residential Roofing on 1st January 2019.
our staff should be incredibly proud of. • Gary Bottomley – Contracts Manager – joined Avonside
“In addition, given the continued growth and Newcastle Residential Roofing on 2nd January 2019.
diversity of the Avonside brand, the additional • Kevin Buckland – Accountant/Office Administrator
governance brought about by the automated – took up the position at Avonside London Flat
non-conformance records mean we can resolve Roofing on 2nd January 2019.
issues quickly and maintain relationships when
issues do occur.” • Anthony O’Hara – Driver/Storesman – joined Bracknell
North West Residential Roofing on 2nd January 2019.
• Ben Harrison – Estimator – joined Bracknell Residential
Roofing on 7th January 2019.
Avonside • Gordon Watson – Contracts Manager – joined Avonside
Scotland Flat Roofing on 14th January 2019.
Southampton • Alan Biggart – Quantity Surveyor – also joined Avonside
Scotland Flat Roofing on 14th January 2019.
Residential Roofing • Jason Headech – Roof Tiler – joined Bracknell South East
Subcontractors Brush Residential Roofing on 1st February 2019.

Up on Their Asbestos • Robert Hamilton – Supervisor – joined Avonside
Glasgow Residential Roofing on 1st February 2019.
Know-How • Michael Platt – Assistant Contracts Manager – joined
Bracknell Thames Valley Residential Roofing on 1st
February 2019.
A handful of subcontractors at Avonside • Janis Harrison – Purchase Ledger Assistant – joined
Southampton Residential Roofing honed Bracknell Midlands Residential Roofing on 11th February
their Asbestos skills and made sure their 2019.
knowledge was up-to-date with the latest • Jordan Moran – Roof Tiler – joined Bracknell North West
approved best practice with a training day Residential Roofing on 15th February 2019.
held on Thursday 7th February. The training • Samuel Tebbs – Management Trainee – joined Bracknell
was essential for the work-on-strip and Midlands Residential Roofing on 25th February 2019.
re-tile jobs that they undertake, and all staff • Jack Ganderton – Trainee Roofing Operative – joined
members passed with flying colours! Bracknell Midlands Residential Roofing on 25th February
2019 too.







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TRAINING EVENTS

PASMA Training Day for Avonside Staff


Any professional roofer knows that ongoing industry training is essential, especially with ever-
evolving technology and safety regulations. That’s why a group of Avonside staff members
attended a PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers Association) training
course at Eastern Region Roof Training Group centre on 5th February 2019 alongside roofers
from Apex Roofing and Bailey Roofing.
Eastern Region Roof Training Group, who provide assistance in the provision of local cost-
effective training in all types of roofing disciplines, said of the session on social media: “Great to
see companies investing in getting their workforce trained!”- couldn’t have put it better
ourselves!





APPRENTICE SPOTLIGHT
Avonside Recruited 50


Apprentices Last Year





AS OUR FLAT ROOFING DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR,
EDDIE STANTON, TOLD RCI MAGAZINE IN THEIR
JANUARY ISSUE (PAGE 22 IF YOU HAVEN’T READ
HIS INTERVIEW YET!): “AT AVONSIDE WE ARE A
STRONG ADVOCATE FOR PLACING YOUNG
PEOPLE IN APPRENTICESHIPS, AND LAST YEAR
ALONE, WE RECRUITED 50 APPRENTICES, AS WE
BELIEVE IN BRINGING THE BEST QUALITY OF
PEOPLE INTO OUR BUSINESS.”
—
Apprentices are the future of our industry so
need nurturing and investing in!
Pictured are roofing students who wore
Avonside donated Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) whilst training for the CITB SkillsBuild
competition at the Leeds College of Building on
12th November. They’re posing with their lecturer
in Roof Slating and Tiling, Chris Messenger to
promote the Leeds College of Building’s open day
which took place on 24th November.
Speaking of Chris, we’d like to wish him a huge
congratulations on being recognised for his
contribution to the teaching of roofing skills in
February with an excellence in teaching award.
Thanks for your dedication to the next roofing
generation, Chris!





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UNDER THE ROOF





APPRENTICE SPOTLIGHT

Avonside Wigan Apprentice


Nominated for Young Roofer of the

Year Award





WE’RE EXCITED TO HAVE NOMINATED ONE OF IMPRESSING HIS COLLEGE TUTOR AND
OUR PROMISING APPRENTICES, LEON FLETCHER MANAGER…
FOR THE YOUNG ROOFER OF THE YEAR AWARD Chris Messenger, Leon’s Lecturer in Roof Slating
AT THE NFRC’S UK ROOFING AWARDS 2019. and Tiling at Leeds College of Building said: “I have
— worked with Leon from the start of his Level 2
Based at Avonside Wigan Residential Roofing, NVQ Diploma in RST [Roof Slating & Tiling] from
Leon is currently undertaking his Level 2 NVQ day one and he has been a perfect example of
Diploma in Roof Slating and Tiling at the Leeds what the roofing industry requires, with total
College of Building with firm plans to continue commitment to learning his chosen vocational
onto his Level 3 NVQ. trade, showing an eagerness to learn and be the
According to Avonside’s Group SHEQ best when measured against his peers.
Manager, Sarah Burke, Leon has a terrific work “Leon has also helped his peers in the
ethic, pays excellent attention to detail and never classroom and workshop when he has seen them
turns out work of poor quality. Never content to struggle with the task in hand.
just plod along and just learn what is required for “Nothing is too much trouble for Leon, and he
him merely to fulfil the marking criteria of his has constantly asked to be challenged with
course, Leon usually asks his mentor to show him value-added tasks including Level 3 theory work
the next skill on his syllabus before going into and practical tasks to a high standard so much so
college to learn it, so he has a head start. that Leon is nearing completion of his NVQ2 and
Pictured are some examples of Leon’s work, Diploma well ahead of his proposed finished date
including his involvement on a new build of July 2019.”
development for Elan Homes in Wilmslow (below) Meanwhile, Leon’s Manager, Keith Moore,
his work rig at college (middle) and Leon doing Branch Manager at Avonside Wigan Residential
some leadwork (top right). Roofing added: “Leon is always very presentable
in appearance and has all equipment at the ready
at all times. He has a very good attitude towards
Health & Safety too and is fully aware of what we
require from him.”
The winner of the award will be announced on 10th
May at the UK Roofing Award 2019 ceremony held
at InterContinental London, the O2.





















www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

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APPRENTICE SPOTLIGHT

Apprentices Become


Sandoft Plant Tourists



Well, not quite tourists but Leeds College of Building first year
apprentices did enjoy an educational tour around the Sandoft
plant on 15th January. For their site visit they donned Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) donated by Avonside…looks like
they had fun!







Supporting Budding Roofers

from the Early Stages





Avonside like to support budding roofers even
before they get to the apprenticeship stage – so
much so that Avonside Northern Quality
Inspector, Daniel Wood attended and manned an
Avonside stand at the Whole School Careers Fair
at St John Fisher School in Wigan on 12th
November with North West Roof Training. Daniel
helped raise high school students’ awareness of
the opportunities within the construction
industry.
Lucy Johnson of St John Fisher Catholic High
School in Wigan said: “I would just like to say a big
thank you for attending the careers fair on
Monday.
“The students found it really beneficial to
speak to so many different colleges, providers
and employers.
“I really appreciate you giving up your time to
attend the event.
“It was a big success and I look forward to
doing it again next year!”

















www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF





TRADE EVENTS

• The 7th February saw our Business Development and Sales Estimator, Andy Kershaw
attend Constructionline’s Meet the Buyer event at Aston Villa Football Club in
Birmingham. McLaren Construction Group, Wates Group and CITB were among the
exhibitors, plus a Health and Safety seminar was delivered by a member of the Health
and Safety Executive (HSE).
The aim of the event was to provide contractors with the opportunity to talk to
some of the leading main contractors and public sector authorities to hear about
upcoming work contracts in the area.


• On 13th February some members of the Avonside team spent their Wednesday
attending the Contractors seminar in Solihull hosted by Taylor Wimpey, one of the
country’s largest house builders.





EEM‘s Building Communities


Awards – A Celebration Like No


Other!





AVONSIDE BOURNE RESIDENTIAL ROOFING
WERE PLEASED TO SPONSOR THE
“CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR” CATEGORY AT
EFFICIENCY EAST MIDLANDS’ (EEM) 5TH
ANNUAL BUILDING COMMUNITIES AWARDS
WHICH TOOK PLACE ON FRIDAY 15TH
FEBRUARY AT ATHENA IN LEICESTER.
—
Golden Lane Housing, Property Plus (Housing Plus
Group), J Tomlinson Limited and ENGIE were all
finalists in the ‘Contractor of the Year’ category,
with J Tomlinson Limited winning the award and for Prostate Cancer UK and another £12,000 was
Property Plus bagging the ‘runner-up’ position. raised for Rhubarb Farm.
Congratulations to both companies! Rhubarb Farm is a horticultural-based
The glitzy black-tie event was attended by 440 therapeutic social enterprise based on the
housing and construction professionals who Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire border that helps
enjoyed a drinks reception, a delicious 3-course the unemployed, recovering drug and alcohol
meal, the presentation of awards to 12 well- misusers, ex-offenders, young people not in
deserving winners, a charity auction, raffle, education and those with learning difficulties
late-night kebabs and veggie sausage cobs and develop new skills and grow in confidence and
cashless casino to boot. Attendees were even employability. The money raised at the Building
treated to a DJ session from 12-3am! To top the Communities Awards helped fund a much-needed
celebrations off, an incredible £22,000 was raised 17-seater mini-bus for the organisation.






www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF





ROOFS FROM MY TRAVELS PHOTOS

Feast your eyes on this issue’s Roofs from

My Travels photos.




DRONING ON!

Chris Hopkins, Divisional
Director at Ploughcroft (Halifax)
- Residential Roofing proved you
don’t necessarily have to travel
abroad to capture some
stunning views when he
snapped this photo of St Mawes
Castle whilst on holiday in
Cornwall. He was asked to carry
out a drone survey of the castle
and since he has the CAA (UK
Civil Aviation Authority) licence,
making him a qualified drone
flier, he obliged!





TEETERING ON THE
EDGE!


Martin Bristow, Branch Manager
of Avonside Honiton Residential
Roofing, was treated to this
traditional Rhodopian stone
roof when he visited Chepelare
in Bulgaria.
He told us: “It reminded me
of one of those coin games
where the bar pushes them
towards the edge. I found
myself watching to see which
stone fell off next, but none did,
amazingly!”




Has an interesting roof, skyline or rooftop view ever caught your eye on
holiday? Whether it was taken abroad or captured in the UK, we’d welcome
your photos for future issues for the staff newsletter. Send them in to:
avonsidegroupservices.co.uk/newsdesk







www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF





CHARITY CORNER

Avonside Now Proud Sponsors of


Lighthouse Club Construction Industry

Charity





GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, TONY BURKE
HAS PLEDGED THE SUPPORT OF AVONSIDE
GROUP TO SPONSOR LIGHTHOUSE CLUB - THE
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CHARITY.
—
On average 2 construction workers take their own
life each day, which is why the mission of
Lighthouse Club, which is the only charity that
provides financial and emotional support to the
construction community and their families,
resonates so strongly with us at Avonside.
As Tony told Roofing Today (see page 28 of
their January issue), Lighthouse Club provides
practical coping strategies and mechanisms to strong network of clubs across the country
construction workers who have suffered an injury (see: www.lighthouseclub.org/find-a-club).
or a long-term illness or simply need a helping Tony shared some wise words with Roofing
hand. The organisation doesn’t receive any public Today: “We can all help on an individual level just
funding and relies on the generosity of those by noticing changes in colleagues’ behaviours and
within the construction industry to operate. being prepared to discuss observations with
The Lighthouse Club helpline is 0345 605 1956 them; talking is always a positive first step. In a
and the recently launched Construction Industry still male-dominated industry, talking about these
Helpline app is a great initiative that makes issues can be the first, and hardest part, of getting
support even more accessible. There is also a support.”





A Wheely Good Cause!


Sorry, we couldn’t resist the pun! Since Avonside are now proud
supporters of The Lighthouse Club - The Construction Industry
Charity, our Group SHEQ Manager, Sarah Burke, alongside 3
other members of Avonside’s staff are taking on the challenge of
the London Ride 100, cycling an impressive 100 miles around
London on 4th August 2019.
Training is already underway, and they have already received
their smart cycling jerseys (pictured).
You can donate by texting: TILE91 to 70070 or by visiting
Sarah’s JUST GIVING page! Best of luck guys!








www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF




Piece of Cake! The Real

Christmas
As well as being fans of
roofing it seems like our staff Spirit!
are also huge fans of
fundraising and cake! Tricia Our Business Development
Rowley and Jenna Barrell Administrator Lesley Taylor is
from our Avonside Driffield well-known for her modesty. In
branch kindly held a coffee reality, Lesley often selflessly
morning, raffle and tombola dedicates her free time to
in December, generously charitable causes.
raising over £1000 for One such cause is Feeding
Macmillan Cancer Support and Brain Tumour Research. Rochdale Homeless, who are a
Lots of staff, family and friends got involved with the cake group of local volunteers that
baking so thank you to all who were involved! work alongside other groups
and agencies to help people in
the community that are
Getting the Miles in homeless or experience
for MIND Charity! extreme poverty. The group is
based at Rochdale Parish
Church, St Chad’s and relies
It turns out Avonside Driffield Residential totally on volunteers and
Roofing are a particularly charitable bunch, donations and provides hot
with Romilly Snowden from the Driffield meals, takeaway snacks,
branch and her friend, Jas completing a drinks, warm clothing and
13.4-mile walk in North Yorkshire in aid of other essentials to those who
mental health charity MIND. They both raised need them. Every Sunday
a brilliant £484.40 for the worthy cause! Well Lesley offers her cooking
done girls! services to Feeding Rochdale
Homeless and helps dish out
sandwich packs and provides
food packs to people who live
Eddie’s Channelling His Inner in hostels. She even spent her

Mo Farrah Christmas day serving food to
the local community’s
homeless!
Our Flat Roofing Divisional Director, Eddie Stanton will be Lesley also regularly does
channelling his inner Mo Farrah as he has entered the BTR 10 Miler runs in aid of charity. We don’t
run in Liverpool to raise money for a local children’s hospice, know about you, but we
Claire’s House in March. reckon the world needs more
Claire’s House Children’s Lesley’s!
Hospice helps seriously and
terminally children live a
fulfilling life through the
creation of wonderful
experiences and by providing
specialist nursing care and
emotional support to
children and their families.
Good luck Eddie!





www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF





MORE STAFF FUN

The Avonside Fantasy Football


Lowdown!



Below is our staff Telegraph Fantasy Football Private League report for week 27.
How’s your team doing?!


League Overall Manager Team Week 27
Position Position Name Name Points

1361
1 13848 Mr B Rabot R4 73 Total
Points
2 50710 Mrs S McColl The Bully Wee 51 1245
3 54466 Mr P Barber Banana Smoothie 46 1236
4 55815 Mr P Binch the gooners 32 1233
5 62989 Mr O Smith Touch My Harry Kane 57 1216
6 63088 Mr S Ohara Stevie O 60 1215
7 73484 Mr P Bull De Gae Bar 60 1190
8 81710 Mr E Stanton Chicken Tikka MoSalah 43 1170
9 90683 Mr J Barry* JB FC 70 1145
10 90756 Mr J Barker Drifters AFC 50 1145
11 95912 Mr B Coulson Lufc reborn 72 1130
12 101998 Mr S Fox training gang 80 1111
13 104617 Mr A Pearson Pearson FC 69 1103
14 109914 Mr A Burleigh Rochdale AFC 28 1085
15 110171 Mr C Harrell inter me nan 42 1084
16 113132 Mr L Lycett The Sleep Thieves 86 1073
17 114220 Mr K Smith Coats 4 Posts 72 1069
18 128006 Mr N Winfield Motchester City 55 1007
* denotes Chairman




If you have any questions about joining in
the Fantasy Football fun contact Jamie Barry
[email protected]


If you have a story for the next issue – simply visit
THE NEWSDESK to submit your branch news! – we
look forward to reading it!















www.avonsidegroup.co.uk

UNDER THE ROOF





MORE STAFF FUN
Christmas Shenanigans!



Christmas may seem like a lifetime ago, but some branches
just couldn’t let it go uncelebrated! Here are the staff of our
Glasgow and Edinburgh branches marking the festive season
with a merry meal, drinks and dancing at The Corinthian in
Glashow on Saturday 8th December – we love the party hats!






Got a winning story you



can’t wait to share with your colleagues?

IF YOU HAVE NEWS ON:
u Projects your branch are proud of
u Branch news, such as apprentice achievements or awards won
u Personal news, any professional qualifications or training your staff have done, for
example charitable events your team members have participated in
u Any new contracts won
u Roofs from My Travels photos
u Any other positive team news


Simply fill out the quick and easy form HERE to submit your story for the next
issue of the staff newsletter!


Best story to get picked by Group MD Tony Burke will win a
£50 AMAZON VOUCHER!







Senior Contracts Manager Graham Geal, from
our Cobsen-Davis branch, won last issue’s Best
Story competition with his story about
completing the £135K Boiler Roof Refurbishment
for Wates Group at BBC Studios Elstree, where
EastEnders is filmed. Could you be our next
winner?













www.avonsidegroup.co.uk