Two employees at Oldham-based Hill’s Panel Products (HPP) have been celebrated for reaching 25 years of service, with HGV driver Phil Hatton and Finance Director Richard Mottram receiving long service awards from Managing Director Keith Wardrope.

Phil’s career at the board and doors manufacturer began with a piece of good fortune on a pavement outside the Hathershaw mini-market. He found a wallet belonging to HPP’s then Transport Supervisor Trevor Ross and, while returning it, mentioned he was facing redundancy from a driving job at a local textile firm. Trevor asked if he held a Class 2 HGV licence, and within weeks Phil started work at HPP. “It was a stroke of good luck,” recalls Phil, from Bardsley. “I’ve been there ever since.”

Richard first joined the family-owned firm as Company Accountant after a mutual contact recommended him to owners Martin and Stephen Hill. Over his 25-year tenure, he rose to Finance Director and played a key role in the management team that grew the business from a turnover of £5m to £35m. “It was a fantastic opportunity,” says Richard, of Uppermill. “Working alongside the owners, Keith Wardrope, and Alan Bolton, we took the strength to develop and grow the business. It’s great to see where we’ve got to.”

HPP’s long service scheme rewards employees at five-year milestones, with the 25-year award including a framed certificate, commemorative plaque, and vouchers. Phil says the company culture has kept him loyal: “It’s always felt like a family. Everyone gets on, and you’re treated very well indeed. Even people who leave often come back—my twin brother John was here for 19 years before leaving, but he’s back now. It’s the type of company where you’re welcomed with open arms.”

Phil, who married his wife Emma last October, is planning a weekend in Dublin for her birthday before their honeymoon. Over the years, he has seen HPP’s fleet of HGVs grow from six to 16 as the customer base expanded. Richard is working through a phased retirement with his wife Helen and looks forward to more travel. He hopes future employees will drive the business further.

Based in Oldham, HPP supplies board, doors, flooring, and fittings for the interior fitted furniture industry, with its growth reflecting a strong local presence and commitment to the community.