Roger retires from PPS

Today we say goodbye to a key member of the PPS team, Roger Blanchard.

Roger played a key part in the PPS team as a delivery driver, but has now handed the baton over as he decided it was time for him to retire.

We asked him about his journey with PPS, and a few final questions before he left…

How long you have worked for PPS?

“Just over 5 years. I joined PPS in July 2017”

Have you always worked as a driver?

“No, although I’ve always really enjoyed driving (and still do).

“After an earlier career as a Mechanical Engineer in the UK Open Cast Coal Mining industry, latterly I was the Health & Safety Manager for a local steel stockholder. Having reached the age of sixty in 2017 I decided to leave H & S for a less-stressful driving job and one which I could enjoy until retirement. I started as a Temporary Driver to assist in the move from Pellon Lane to Brighouse and am still here now!”

How has the business changed in your time here?

“It’s changed and grown beyond recognition. From one small branch to a fully-fledged and integrated 5-branch operation, providing professional turnkey compressed air installations and solutions, pneumatic parts and ducting. This growth has inevitably meant that my role as the Delivery Driver covering all 5 branches has always been varied and rarely quiet (something thankfully I’ve been really pleased about)!”

What’s been the best bit of the job?

“Being part of the PPS team, all of which are a great bunch and always willing to assist.

“As Delivery Driver you not only deliver customer orders but deliver and collect machines and parts for the Service Engineers & Installation Team to fit and install, so are an integral part of the process.

“Oh, and the driving!”

How would you describe PPS in one word?

“Committed – To both Staff and Customers alike.”

How will you spend your time?

“Earlier in the year my wife Ginny & I bought a touring caravan and got back into caravan holidaying after a 20 year break (last owned a van when our kids were young). We’ve already had several UK stays to date and have others booked for later this year and 2023. Our plan over the next few years is to also tour abroad and visit Western European countries.

“Once I’ve recovered from my heart valve replacement operation at LGI (Op hopefully this December) I plan to keep active and re-start going for country walks and using the running machine at home once again.

“I’ve also had an idea to try archery, bowls, treasure hunting using a metal detector and becoming an experienced drone flier – watch this space!

“Oh, and driving – I’m planning on becoming a volunteer driver for Calderdale Transport and/or Overgate Hospice.”

Any parting comments?

“Leaving PPS has been a hard decision to make. I will miss it as I enjoy my job and working with the Team, however I feel now is the right time. I must admit I’m looking forward to having not to get up as early and having the time to do what I want, when I want during the week.

“I wish all of you the very best for the future.”