The foundations for the present company were laid down nearly 200 years ago, with the establishment of a cabinet makers business in the locality in 1840. At that time, and for many years later the local joiner and cabinet maker was also the undertaker.
This work involved not only making the coffins, but also transferring the body to the place of rest. Edmund Patchett, Charles’ father, told a tale of him helping to carry a deceased gentleman from his bedroom down a small winding staircase. There was no room for a traditional coffin to pass down the stairs, so the body was tied to a coffin base board, but not securely enough! Halfway through the manoeuvre the ropes slipped and so did the body, right into the arms of Edmund. He remembered being face to face with this chap for the rest of his life, a very close encounter.
Throughout the war years, the company made boxes for ammunition, rifles and many other items to be despatched overseas including large packing cases for gliders that were towed carrying invading troops into France.
Innovation and enterprise have shaped the company over the years, Robert John Patchett took over the reins from his father at the age of 19 and whilst keeping the housing and joinery businesses busy, he developed an interest in poultry and egg production. An engineering production facility was established, and thanks to a design patent, was soon supplying poultry equipment to farmers around the world.
From being a local house builder, the company helped meet the demand for new housing by building in the London suburbs, creating housing, shops and other amenities for the fast growing communities that were forming as the tube network spread further into the countryside.
Celebrating 175 years in 2015, we are proud of our heritage, but are very much aware that a new generation has to develop its own brand and reputation. The window and other joinery products we are producing now have to satisfy a very demanding customer, a customer that has a choice of supplier, a customer that demands the best quality at the right price. We know we can deliver.
Charles Patchett – Chairman
Charles graduated from Manchester university then worked for a national building contractor in London and North Yorkshire before joining the family business. Involved in the development and management of residential projects, the manufacture of timber frame buildings and a bespoke joinery business, his career has revolved around the built environment.
Whilst the day to day running of the group is now delegated to the younger directors, Charles is happy to share his wealth of knowledge and experience and to offer advice as new ideas and projects are discussed, whether asked for or not!
Trudi has been with the company 10 short years and has been shuffled from pillar to post. Starting on the reception desk (including cups of tea all round), then on to accounts, Trudi became a director in 2013 with responsibility for the administration of the group.
Trudi has 2 children in their 20’s and one grandson. Daughter, Claire, lives in Australia and has Alfie, all of 15 months. Son, Craig, runs his own business in Manchester.
Asked if there were any bad habits she would like to disclose, Trudi carefully bypassed the point. Perhaps, we should ask her partner Steve to send a list. Travelling, walks in the country and keeping in touch with the family keep this lady busy, when not at the office.
Keeping us all happy at work is not easy, but Trudi is there pulling the strings behind the scenes and on occasions, still makes a good cup of tea.
Edmund Patchett was a joiner and cabinet maker and established the business in 1840. Each generation since has been connected with wood working and house building. The first house was built across the road from our existing offices. James is continuing with this tradition, having been involved in house building and conversions, since joining the company 12 years ago.
Having won a national design award aged 16, creating a box for Easter Eggs, James completed his formal education at Loughborough University. Married to Emma, they have two children Olivia, 7, and Henry, 5. The family live close to Bronte country and James spends some of his free time trekking across the moors in search of either of his 2 dogs.
Transforming the older workshops into a modern factory involves a leap of faith and a conviction that only the best will do. From the smallest design details to the best finish possible, our products can be compared with the rest, only our products carry the Patchett name.
Being the youngest of the directors, but not necessarily the best looking, Dave brings to the team a fresh perspective. After college Dave spent his gap year down under travelling in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji and developed his can-do approach to life still further. Joining Patchett Homes in 2008, from a local estate agent’s office, Dave heads up the property management team and also adds his contributions to the joinery company.
Married to Liana, they have 3 boys, Luke 9, Joseph 6, and Sam 2. Whilst providing a taxi service to the children after work, he still has time to continue his family sporting heritage, playing crown green bowls to a high standard. Quietly, he does admit to supporting Bradford City and every week hopes that his own can-do attitude will rub off on the players.