King’s Lynn-based Williams Refrigeration has recognised their latest long-serving employees, celebrating a combined 270 years of service between them.

This year saw 11 employees from the business reach significant milestones of 20, 30 and 40 years.

To celebrate the occasion, the long service achievements were marked with a hog roast lunch and gift awards, as well as special anniversary workwear to all staff following the Company’s own milestone of 40 years.

Both Paul Belson, Production Engineer, and Richard Benefer, Maintenance Operator, each celebrated 40 years of service, while Rachel Smith, SOP Supervisor, reached 30 years.

(Williams celebrated the Company's recent 40 year anniversary with a hog roast, cake and workwear for all staff)

Celebrating two decades at the business, Andy Ward, Area Sales Manager, commented: “Over the 20 years there have been a fair few changes, including a change of ownership, however when I look around the sales team as well as at all the departments at King’s Lynn and group companies, there are a lot of people that have been with us longer than I have so in some ways I still feel like a newcomer!

“I have enjoyed my time working for Williams, who are in my opinion the best company within our industry, and hope to continue well into the future.”

Also achieving 20 years is Tony Smith, IT Technical Administrator, and Vikki Panks, Spares Supervisor.

(Pictured R-L: Dave Tyers - Finance Director, Tim Smith - Managing Director, Vikki Panks - Spares Supervisor, Rachel Smith - SOP Supervisor, Domonic Mace - Senior Manufacturing Operations Manager, Tony Smith - IT Technical Administrator, Paul Belson - Production Engineer, and Richard Benefer - Maintenance Operator)

Vikki added: “If you’d have told a 16 year old me that I would be here 20 years later I would never have believed you. I enjoy my job and I like a lot of the people I work with.”

Since its inception in 1980, Williams Refrigeration has continually developed and grown alongside its loyal workforce. The business employs over 200 people across the UK and its latest milestone is testament to both the company and employees.

A special mention for John Leggett who sadly passed away last month. John would have also celebrated 20 years at Williams and the Company pays tribute to his long and loyal service and offers its sincere condolences to his family and friends.

(Tim Smith presents Tony Smith with 20 year award)

Tim Smith, Managing Director of Williams Refrigeration, added: “Williams Refrigeration is renowned for its long-serving employees. We think it says something that we have so many employees who stay with us for most, if not all, of their working life.

“It is a pleasure to celebrate the continued long service commitment and loyalty of Williams colleagues. Congratulations to all on their fantastic achievements.”

Staff recognised for their long service are:

40 Years

Paul Belson

Richard Benefer

30 Years

Rachel Smith

20 Years

Andy Ward

Tony Smith

Vikki Panks

Michael Gathercole

Jason Staines

Paul Wheatley

Paul Brooks

John Leggett