One of the region's largest construction companies has held a special event to celebrate its employees’ 25 years of service. 

R G Carter, which has been providing building, construction and engineering services across East Anglia for more than a century, held an event at the Lowlands in Drayton to mark the long service of almost two-dozen members of its staff.

Employees attending the event had all reached the 25-year milestone this year. They were each presented with engraved watches by Robert Carter, chairman of R G Carter, and Mrs Charlotte Carter.

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In total, 23 watches were presented on the day. 

In previous years, the chairman has also presented carriage clocks.

Since becoming chairman in 1982, Mr Carter has presented more than 750 clocks and watches to employees across the R G Carter Group, which celebrated its centenary year in 2021.

Long service employees and guests at the R G Carter celebratory lunch held at The Lowlands in DraytonLong service employees and guests at the R G Carter celebratory lunch held at the Lowlands in Drayton (Image: R G Carter) Mr Carter said the tradition of presenting timepieces is an important part of the firm’s heritage.

He said: “I am extremely proud to have presented so many clocks to so many employees over the last four decades, thanking them for the hard work and commitment that they have given to the firm.

“It so important that we celebrate the skills, expertise and craftsmanship of the people that have made the company such a success for over 100 years.

“I am deeply grateful to the people that have delivered continuity and helped inspire loyalty, something which is integral to our company values.”

Robert Carter, chairman of R G Carter, giving his speech at the 2024 long service event held at The Lowlands in Drayton.Robert Carter, chairman of R G Carter, giving his speech at the 2024 long service event held at the Lowlands in Drayton. (Image: R G Carter) A total of 50 guests including directors, managers and this year’s retirees joined the chairman in a marquee on the lawn to enjoy a lunch followed by the official presentation of the engraved watches.

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With more than 60 apprentices working across the R G Carter group, it continues its commitment to training the next generation in construction and building the ongoing future and success of the firm.