George Barnsdale, a highly respected manufacturer of premium timber windows and doors, is proud to announce its 140th anniversary. Since its founding in 1884 by George Barnsdale, the family-run business has become a cornerstone of the Lincolnshire village of Donington, contributing to both the local community and the broader construction industry. To commemorate this landmark anniversary, George Barnsdale is set to publish a special commemorative newspaper that details its rich history, milestones, and the significant impact it has had on both the local community and the timber industry. A staff celebration will also take place, honouring the dedicated team whose hard work and craftsmanship have been vital to the company’s success. The story so far The journey began when a young George Barnsdale purchased a modest plot of land in Donington Market Place, establishing a small carpentry workshop that quickly garnered a reputation for quality craftsmanship. Over the decades, the company, which offers a nationwide project management and installation service, has evolved significantly, transitioning from steam-powered machinery to advanced robotic technology, all while staying true to its roots and commitment to high quality timber products. Impact on the local community George Barnsdale has played an instrumental role in sustaining the local economy of Donington. By providing valuable, highly skilled jobs, the company has supported hundreds of families over the years. The Barnsdale family’s involvement extends beyond employment; they actively contribute to local charities, educational initiatives, and community events, solidifying the company’s position as an integral part of village life. Innovative manufacturing practices The company’s state-of-the-art factory is a testament to its dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation. With a commitment to environmentally responsible practices, George Barnsdale takes pride in its proactive sourcing of timber from certified sustainable forests, ensuring that every piece of wood is traceable and responsibly harvested. The company also employs a multitude of energy-saving measures, including using recycled fuel made from timber waste to power its generator. The factory is equipped with CNC-controlled machinery, humidity-controlled environments, and stringent glazing standards, ensuring that each product not only meets but exceeds industry expectations. However, it is the significant investment of time and expertise in design and software setup that truly sets George Barnsdale apart. This commitment has enabled the company to efficiently adapt its range of products for precise customisation, allowing for the creation of unique, high-performance windows and doors tailored to individual client needs. Furthermore, George Barnsdale’s rigorous testing processes—including weather performance, security evaluations, and paint durability—ensure that its products deliver long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance. A legacy of excellence Throughout its 140-year history, George Barnsdale has embraced its role as a custodian of heritage buildings, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The company has been involved in numerous pan-European industry research projects, collaborating with organisations like the Building Research Establishment and the British Woodworking Federation to enhance the longevity and performance of timber fenestration. Tom Wright, Managing Director of George Barnsdale, commented on the anniversary: “As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we reflect on our heritage and the strong ties we have with our community. Our legacy is not just about producing exceptional timber products; it’s about the people who make this company what it is. We are dedicated to maintaining our family values while continuously innovating to meet the needs of our customers. Our commitment to sustainability and excellence remains unwavering, and we look forward to another 140 years of success and community engagement.” As the company looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of uplifting communities and providing exceptional products that enhance the beauty and functionality of homes and businesses. For more information about George Barnsdale and its 140th anniversary celebrations, please visit https://georgebarnsdale.co.uk.

The impact local foster carers have on supporting children in North East Lincolnshire was celebrated this week at a brunch for local businesses. The event, at Grimsby Town Football Club’s Blundell Park ground, brought together some of the 100-foster friendly businesses, schools and ambassadors for the first time. Opened with remarks from Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council, Ann-Marie Matson, the brunch showcased the voices of some of the children that have been brought up in the care of local foster families. The event also saw the premiere of a new foster carer recruitment advert that was directed by Jack Spring (Three Day Millionaire) and voiced by Tommy Turgoose (This is England). Later, the room hit an emotional note when hearing the account of one foster carer and her journey from nursing to fostering children. Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for children and education, said that the overarching theme of the event was about exploring how the community can support foster carers. “We’ve heard some incredibly emotional accounts about the lengths our wonderful foster carers go to, supporting children that have often been through significant trauma. “Our foster carers have an incredible impact on the lives of our children in care, so it’s important that, as a community, we look for ways to support them. “There are lots of things that businesses can do to support our foster carers, from offering additional annual leave to employees that foster, to making products and services available at a discount for our carers and their children. “If any businesses would like to find out more about becoming a foster-friendly business, please get in touch.”