Two employees at a Wiltshire dessert factory are celebrating 30 years of dedicated service.
John Gardner and Steve Jones first joined Bakkavor Desserts, based on Hopton Industrial Estate in Devizes, in 1994.
That year, Tony Blair was elected as Labour Party leader, the Channel Tunnel officially opened, Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa, and the very first episode of The Vicar of Dibley aired.
But throughout all the changes of the following three decades, John and Steve have remained permanent fixtures in the food manufacturing business.
Speaking about his lengthy stint at Bakkavor, Steve spoke of his pride at the “special” milestone.
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He said: “I can remember clearly my first day at Bakkavor on 24th June 1994, when I started in the creamery department.
“I’ve had many great memories over the years and reaching 30 years of service has been really special for me.”
He went on to reveal that he has stayed loyal to the firm because of the support he has received over the years.
Steve added: “I’ve stayed with Bakkavor for so long because I work with good people and management.
“The company helped me a lot when my father passed away and my mum was sick.”
The pair have both enjoyed taking on varied roles and responsibilities over the years.
“When I started Bakkavor everything was new, but 30 years on it’s a lot more familiar”, said John.
“My job is to ensure the products are delivered from the fryers and ovens to the decorating lines in time for the finishing touch.
“I’ve enjoyed working here as the Bakkavor team always gives me great support.”
Bakkavor says John and Steve’s “remarkable” tenures are not as unusual as they may seem.
The firm claims over half the Devizes workforce have been at the site for five or more years.
In recognition of this, the company will be running Long Service Awards in November to recognise the loyalty and dedication of 94 colleagues who have reached milestones this year.
Site operations manager, Stuart Dillon said: “On behalf of the management team, I am so proud of the passion and loyalty of our colleagues.
“We work hard to offer opportunities to people from all walks of life and we support the wellbeing and professional development of our people.
“There is a family feel to the business that we all care about.
“John and Steve have achieved significant milestones and the long service of all our people will be celebrated and rewarded in style at our Long Service Awards.”
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