Dedicated Trowbridge lorry driver Trevor Hanney is celebrating his 40th year with timber and building merchant Travis Perkins this year, after holding several roles within the firm.

Mr Hanney, of Dovecote Close, Trowbridge, joined when the site in Bradford Road was owned by Jimmy Ladds, before Sharpe and Fisher building supplies and then Travis Perkins took it over.

The 62-year-old, who is affectionately known as “ginge”, has held several positions over the years, including working in the yard and on gate duty letting lorries in and out, before taking up his latest position as a driver seven years ago.

He said he has seen a number of changes over the years, but has always enjoyed working in the trade. Mr Hanney celebrated his achievement by going for a meal with his family at The Royal Oak in Hawkeridge.

Mr Hanney, who has three grandchildren, said: “I found out there was a job going up there and I went along and had an interview. I was given the job straight away and I have been there ever since.

“I’ve always enjoyed working in the building merchant trade and they are a good bunch of chaps who I get on well with. I have seen many changes over the years, especially as several different firms have taken over the site.

“I much prefer my role now out on the road to what I’ve done previously and I want to carry on for a couple more years yet until I reach 65. There are always ups and downs, but that’s the way it goes and I have always enjoyed it.

“I have been getting lots of congratulations from customers as many of them know me well due to how long I have been there.

“Some of them know me as “ginge” because of my hair and they have been coming up to me and shaking my hand.”

Mr Hanney, who enjoys gardening and wood work in his spare time, was given points by Travis Perkins to spend in a company catalogue to mark his long service and he said he will be getting a new bike to ride to work.