An associate director at a multi-award-winning Shropshire leisure company is celebrating 30 years’ service.
As associate director of retail and premises, Andy Harding’s wide-ranging role at Shrewsbury-based Salop Leisure also covers the adjoining, award-winning Love2Stay touring and glamping resort, which he oversees.
Having started his career in car sales at Mercedes Benz in Shrewsbury, it wasn’t long before he swapped to touring caravan sales at Salop Leisure for seven years and then became manager of the company’s accessories shop for 23 years.
He spent some time as joint general manager of Love2 Stay before being promoted to his current role.
“When I joined the company, which was then known as Salop Caravans, on May 15, 1995, we had 35 members of staff on a 1.25 acre site at Meole Brace,” said Andy, 48, who lives at Meole Village. “Now we have 250 staff and a 50-acre site.
“I am lucky because I still enjoy coming to work after 30 years. In fact, my partner, Zoe, says I put work before her because my phone is on 24 hours a day, seven days a week in my role!
“There is very much a family atmosphere at Salop Leisure and I enjoy being part of the big family. It’s a lovely industry to work in because the people we meet are here for leisure or going on holiday and have a very positive attitude.
“Only last week, I met a couple from Cannock who bought an Abbey Spectrum touring caravan from me 26 years ago! I have met so many people who have become good friends over the years.
“For example, I work at caravan shows twice a year and I have seen the same people there for decades. We are part of a friendly community and have a good relationship with other dealerships.”
Salop Leisure’s joint managing director Mike Harris said: “Congratulations to Andy for reaching this significant service milestone with the company. He has risen through the ranks deservedly due to hard work, dedication and loyalty over the past 30 years.”
