APRIL 2018 ISSUE 28SYMM.CO.UK

Symm Decorators have been keeping very busy. We have been meeting new clients and taking on more independent work. Wallpapering seems to be very much the trend at the moment with us recently hanging papers across Oxfordshire and London. A very challenging contract in particular was in Mayfair, where we had to apply various papers to ceiling bays which had to be cut to differing shapes and sizes.

Paul Morrison and his team have just completed the external decoration for a long-term client and are currently working on new windows for our project near Marlow.

Paul Matthews and his team are currently decorating an apartment at Neo Bankside in London which has also involved us project managing some other trades.

Dan Wright and his team are working at the Stow-on-the-Wold project and undertaking lots of preparation work involving stripping woodwork and stone.

We have also begun working at the Andover project, with internal decorations now underway and Paul Davies taking the lead hand for us and doing a great job.

On the administration side of the department we have taken great steps in using the new COINS ordering facility. All our team have been trained and are ‘live’. This means all ordering is online, no paper is needed and time will be saved by all involved in the processing of invoices! This is to be rolled out across the company over the next few months so we look forward to everyone coming on board. It may sound daunting at first but it’s quite straight forward after a couple of trials.

To summarise we are very busy and those that I have not mentioned within the team are all working very hard and doing a fantastic job. Here’s to a very prosperous 2018!

SYMM DECORATORS

It has been a consistently busy year for Sharp and Howse. We have a healthy workload completed this year in the Contracts Department with a significant number of projects already secured for the coming year.

Service Department By Alexa MacArthur, Service Administrator

We are proud of our engineer Dan Simmonds who has recently completed his commercial gas course - well done!

The long and cold winter has been testing for many heating systems. We have been very busy with call-outs and getting repairs sorted as quickly as possible. We would always recommend that annual boiler servicing is carried out as it may identify any problems with your boiler and address them before they do any major damage.

Problems with your boiler, no matter how small they may be, will only get worse the longer you ignore them.

The service department within Sharp and Howse is continuing to grow with a high workload and we welcome Stuart Bishop to the team.

Chippinghurst Manor By Gary Gillett, Symm Building Site Supervisor

The task of the work at Chippinghurst Manor is to remove and replace the old iron heating system with a new stainless-steel pipework system.

The problem was that the iron pipework was under the floor running through the kitchen, dining room and main hallway of a 16th century period property.

Two weeks of protection work was required before a hammer could be lifted, which proved to be a hard task.

Breaking out old duct work was no easy task, but was carried out well by Darren Blacker, Jake Florey, Corey Lynch and Scott Blacker who removed very old slabs and some dodgy 80’s duct work.

Liam Clarke of Sharp and Howse has the task of re instating the stainless-steel pipework system which is all crimped with no soldered joints in very cramped conditions. Liam has now filled and pressure tested and all is good.

Darren Blacker is now laying 35m of new stone slabs on top of a more robust accessible ducting.

SHARP AND HOWSE UPDATE

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

STARTERS

LEAVERS

DON’T FORGET!

We would like to welcome the following people to Symm:

Matthew O’Keeffe (Surveyor), Mark Tutin (Labourer), Lewis Maskens (Labourer), Catherine Sneade (Contracts Administrator, Abbotswood), Stuart Bishop (Service Engineer, Sharp and Howse) and Paul Martin (Estimator) who has returned to Symm after a short time away.

We would like to say farewell to the following and wish them the best of luck in their new ventures:

Aleksandra Niemiec (Surveyor), Eamon Parker (Carpenter), Tom Kogel (Carpenter), Nathan Stacey (Carpenter) Richard McCartney (Labourer) and Andy Brown (Sharp and Howse).

If you are a member of BUPA, you can claim £100 towards glasses every 2 years.

For more information on how to claim, please contact HR.

BLENHEIM PALACE TRIATHLON

TEABREAK TEASER - CAN YOU SPOT THE 8 DIFFERENCES?

Making a donation to the charity is very easy – simply visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/symm-group

When did you start working for Sharp and Howse?

June 2016.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The comradery of the small team here all working together getting the projects completed.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

Take Myrtle (our pup) out for a walk.

Outside interests?

Walking the dog in the countryside at home. Try and do a good few miles every weekend.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Build a big house and get S+H to do the mechanical package.

WHO’S WHO: MATTHEW SKINNER ESTIMATOR/SURVEYOR, SHARP AND HOWSE

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Douglas Adams and then go for a pint with him.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

Complete collection of Douglas Adams books, MP3 player and a black handled pen knife.

If you could be any fictional character who would you be and why?

Ford Prefect, seemed happy with things and his towel.

Where would your dream holiday be?

My wife loves Sweden, I have never been but would love to go.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Born Slippy by Underworld

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3 Team 4

Swimmer 750m Gary Bennell Steve Godfrey Phil Morton Alexa MacArthur

Cyclist 19.8km Matthew O’Keeffe Mark Reay Peter Payne Mark Wittet

Runner 5.4km Joseph Rimmer Adam Styles Nick Minty Kai Logan

If you’d like to come and support our teams and spend a day in the magnificent Blenheim Palace grounds, please email amym@symm.co.uk as discounted spectator tickets for the Sunday will be available! We’d love to see as many friendly faces cheering our teams on as possible!

If you’d like to help with fundraising for the event please share this link far and wide! It’ll have a live story consisting of fundraising progress and training updates.

Last year’s event was spectacular, resulting in a collection of medals, treasured memories, aches and pains, and a huge £2,000 in donations raised for the event’s chosen charity, and very worthy recipient, Bloodwise.

This year we’re upping our game! On Sunday 3 June 2018 4 teams consisting of both Symm and Sharp and Howse will swim, cycle and run a combined distance of 103.8km before the day is out (hopefully!)

SITE UPDATES

ANDOVER PROJECTManaged by: Alan Harper, Nathan Warne, Achatz Cargill and Rick Henstridge

Currently we are progressing well carrying out the final stages of the Main House whilst more work has been instructed externally, including a pool pavilion, workshop extension, stables, walled garden, tractor shed and greenhouse base.

The scaffold strike to the Main House allows for a phenomenal view, especially looking down from the hilltop.

Achatz has enjoyed his time working as a Student Placement, facing challenges head-on and developing a better understanding of what it is like working on site. Kai Logan, our Apprentice Carpenter, is thrilled to be involved and is obtaining valuable carpentry skills from mentors Justin and Bev Krzywiec who are now well into the second fix carpentry works.

The house is starting to look like a home. The kitchen units have been fitted and bedroom units commenced. The stone stair has been fixed and fibrous plaster arches are almost complete.

Symm Decorators have commenced on the first floor and most of the first fix mechanical and electrical works are complete.

It’s an exciting time watching it all come together and the wet weather (and snow!) is very challenging. There is a great team spirit on site and we are all pulling together to get the project completed as soon as possible.

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Bob Scrivens, Vincent Trarieux, Hugh Bickerton

With an average of 70 tradesmen, the site is extremely busy. Works are progressing rapidly on all fronts with the site divided into three main sections; the main house, the swimming pool works and the listed garden alterations. The internal refit of the main house is progressing from mechanical first fix through to second fix carpentry, with the team of 16 carpenters headed up by Neal Davison all performing brilliantly. Nick Minty and Max Randell continue to shine taking on extra responsibilities. The bricklaying team is under the watchful eye of Tony Daniels and are all undertaking some tricky structural alterations requiring both patience and expertise. Symm Decorators have begun a soft start on site but with over 100 doors, 100 windows and 83 rooms to decorate they have a real task ahead!

The external works are also progressing at full steam. The piles for the swimming pool (52 of them, 10 metres deep) are all installed and tested. On such a tight site it was a feat of engineering just to fit them all in. All under slab drainage has been installed and the insulation layer is progressing well. The listed formal gardens, designed by distinguished architect Edwin Lutyens, are also undergoing gentle restoration with pathways being excavated, steps rebuilt and pergolas reinstated.

Site moral is extremely high (considering the weather conditions!). This is a huge testament to all involved, being able to produce such high-quality workmanship under testing conditions.

SYDMONTON NEW BUILD Managed by: Bryan Richards, Rick Henstridge

On site we are currently installing roof trusses to the main roof. We have already fitted the lower roof over the boot room, workshop and utility room. Bryan Richards is continuing to drive the construction of the grand stone front elevation, along with the rustic looking brick to the remaining elevations. The building is looking good with rubbed brick arches over the brick openings. We are looking forward to getting the chimneys built soon which will mean that the entire roof will be water tight, allowing the mechanical and electrical work to commence. Warburtons are progressing the mechanical and electrical design and C&G Joinery are currently manufacturing the windows. JCA architects are very responsive and keep sending revised drawings every other day which helps us to move the project along. Regarding the recent snow and cold weather, we had 5-foot snow drifts to contend with. The Merlo and a large bucket managed to get the site opened again, which was well received by the client who commented “All clear! Great job by the Symm team digger”. CHELSEA REFURBISHMENT

Managed by: Darius Abromilias, Aron Johnstone

The rear terrace steel works have been completed and face brickwork has gone up to wall plate level. External drainage to the rear court yard basement area has been completed and old brick hearths have been rebuilt on the ground, first and second floors. Mechanical and electrical first fix has been completed from top floor all the way to the ground floor with electrical contractors having started second fix on the fourth floor. The Diathonite insulation plastering system has been completed, along with the lining of walls in timber batten and Elka board on the third and fourth floors. The second floor master and third floor ensuite bathroom internal partitions have been formed. The demolition works have also commenced at the rear between the ground and first floor, removing part of the old ring beam and stone coping.

WENTWORTH NEW BUILDManaged by: David Round, Jason Griffiths, Aron Johnstone

The project has an established well-rounded management team. The latest members to join have been Jason Griffiths as Assistant Site Manager and Piotr Dabek as our Site Labourer.

Jason has made a very impressive start here since joining us in January. He has managed to familiarise himself with the site and its needs in a very short time. His knowledge of the company paperwork and systems of placing orders have been very beneficial and time saving. He has become a very valuable member in a short period of time and has gelled very well with all the sub-contractors on site.

Piotr has come to us from one of the London sites currently coming to completion. He has completed a mobile crane course and is becoming a proficient crane operator in conjunction with other site duties. He has made a good start, and we are happy to have him here as part of the team.

Aron Johnstone, John Goddard and David Round have been here since day one on site and all have an excellent working rapport. We all try to inject some humour throughout the day to make life a little more enjoyable.

In brief, we are lucky to have such a close working team that places its team members first and foremost.

In the last three months we have completed the excavation to the basement and car lift area, all external walls to the basement, in-situ poured concrete slab to the ground floor, internal tanking and block wall, and 80% of the back filling around the structure.

We are now in a position to begin building the external brick walls after installing the stone plinths. Internal block walls will go up at the same time with a provisional date to install first floor planks in the beginning of April.

The site office block is to be demolished then we will relocate to cabins on site.

Knowles, being the main sub-contractor on site, have performed in an outstanding manner. Their approach towards health and safety has been second to none, playing a big part in having no accidents or near misses to date. Their works have been complimented by the brickworks contractor Henley Brick and Stone for their accuracy of setting out.

BELGRAVIA REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Colin Smith, Hugh Bickerton

The project is almost complete and the small team from Symm Joinery, led by Richard Fletcher, Andrew Gee and Tim Hicks, are all putting their skills to the test. Colin Smith has handed over to the finishing foreman. Working alongside Veere Grenney, the Interior Designer, we have installed some amazing finishes. Sam Moss has brought the Symm Decorators’ element to a close with a smile on his face.

HEDSOR PROJECTManaged by: Dion Hutchinson, Kevin McCarthy

The works on site are progressing well. The new garden wall, steps inside and out, column bases and sawn York and Herringbone flooring have all been built / laid by Darren King, Michael Pratley and Jack Lambourne, our Apprentice Bricklayer. A new hipped roof end has been fitted to match the existing along with new skylights, new studwork to the dovecote and new oak windows. This work has been carried out by Paul Slade, John Brown and Jake Florey.

MARLOW PROJECTManaged by: Tony Bowler, Matthew Hogg, Kyle Kilmartin

The building is Grade 1 listed, built circa 1755 overlooking the River Thames just outside Marlow. Over the years it has had many changes; originally a private house up to the 80’s, it was then converted to offices. Our client recently purchased the property and we are now working to return it to its original purpose.

The works Tony Bowler and Matt Hogg are managing is a total refurbishment over 5 floors, with a modern lift, major structural works to form new door openings and a vast marble and finishes schedule. This also involves an extension on the basement to form a new underground plant room which will house the mechanics to run the house including ground source heat pumps with bore holes sunk 150m below ground (tricky when 20m from the river!)

Currently we have finished stud walls to the upper two floors with mechanical and electrical working at a rate of knots, which John Brown and Martin Ward are doing a fantastic job of keeping up with. Merrick completes the Symm team as he is rushing around to keep site looking tidy!

Pershore have their work cut out as the house is having all new sash windows made and a huge internal joinery package, however Robin Turner, Martin Williams and the team are on schedule and have many drawings signed off already.

The roof has seen better days and the client has just approved an up-and-over scaffold to allow us to replace the roof. We have also been instructed to undertake Phase 1b involving a nanny flat, wine cellar and cinema, with the opportunity for more work in Phase 2.

Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

We are currently making some changes within the joinery department. A division wide effort, we have been reflecting on how we have done things in the past and making positive changes for the future. Introducing things like KPI’s and quality records has been challenging on occasion but we look forward to seeing the benefits in the months to come.

Some of the changes we are currently working on include;

• A new project and production management system.

• A new quality control and reporting system giving the guys on the shop floor a voice for making positive changes.

• A review and reworking of our estimating system.

Hopefully, there are lots more things to come in 2018 - we will keep you posted!

SYMM JOINERY UPDATE

When did you start working for Symm?

I started at Symm at the end of December 2017.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy solving complex problems and working with different people.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

I go to the gym, a great place to get rid of some of the stresses of the day… whilst trying to deal with the dadbod.

Outside interests?

I love the gym and eating. The more I go to the gym the more I get to eat without the negative consequences.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Check the ticket… I’m one of life’s pessimists.

What would your superpower be if you could have one?

The ability to keep my two little boys in bed… I haven’t had a lay in for 6 years.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

I’d love to see my grandmother again and introduce her to her two great grandsons.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

A protein shake, beats headphones and my iPhone…. Unless my partner is reading this then it would definitely be her and our two little boys.

If you could trade lives with one person for the entire day, who would it be and why?

Sounds cheesy but I’m quite happy with the life I’ve got, I’ll stick.

Where would your dream holiday be?

I’ve been to some great places and have spent some time diving in the Maldives. I would love to go back to the Maldives with my two little boys.

If you could witness any event, past, present or future, what would it be?

Mmm, tricky one. I guess it would be to see my two little boys grow up and get married.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Anything, I love dancing… only kidding, you will never see me dancing.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

I suck at languages. I’ve lived abroad for many years but have always found it difficult to master the language. I would love the ability to learn different languages quickly.

What would you name the autobiography of your life?

He tried, he really tried.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Rich and famous…. I failed at both.

WHO’S WHO: MARTIN WILLIAMSJOINERY OPERATIONS MANAGER

Cupola for the Marlow project

STUDENT PLACEMENTS

Charlie Johnson

Symm has given me a great opportunity and in-sight into the construction industry. I feel the tuition that I have been given by Symm and its employees has given me an excellent base to start my career within the industry.

I have learned many skills, from how to interact with clients and creating professional relationships, to managing a site effectively by coordinating the team to accommodate each individual’s strengths in order to complete weekly targets in the most efficient and effective way.

One of the highlights I will take away is how Symm is an intergraded community that makes everyone feel welcome.

I feel Symm can evolve the technology side of the business, as investing in newer technologies will give a more competitive edge and make it easier to manage the flow of information to staff on site using different data access points, rather than paper, making the business more efficient and cost effective.

I would like to thank Aron Johnstone for showing me the contracting side of the project. I would also like to thank Peter Payne for always taking the time of day to sit down and talk me through everything step by step to give me a greater understanding and overview of construction site management.

Good luck to you all.

Achatz Cargill

For the past 9 months, I have worked on site with two new build manor houses. I have been responsible for assisting with enforcing the health and safety of the sites, maintaining the overall organisation of the site’s documentation (excluding Construction Phase and RAMS files), managing the site set up and welfare facilities.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Symm, mainly because there was never a time where I had nothing to work towards. Each day has various challenges to confront, which develops specific skills required for me to improve further as a construction professional.

With Symm’s staff, I always receive a welcoming vibe and a sense of a strong team spirit. This creates a positive working environment which gives me a confidence boost on a daily basis to perform exceedingly well.

There has been excellent support in terms of mentoring. Not only am I learning from Symm’s managers, but also from the construction tradesmen on site who are more than happy explaining in-depth about their professions.

With numerous high end projects there are always unique challenges to experience and work to get on with as soon as you start.

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk

SITE UPDATES

ANDOVER PROJECTManaged by: Alan Harper, Nathan Warne, Achatz Cargill and Rick Henstridge

Currently we are progressing well carrying out the final stages of the Main House whilst more work has been instructed externally, including a pool pavilion, workshop extension, stables, walled garden, tractor shed and greenhouse base.

The scaffold strike to the Main House allows for a phenomenal view, especially looking down from the hilltop.

Achatz has enjoyed his time working as a Student Placement, facing challenges head-on and developing a better understanding of what it is like working on site. Kai Logan, our Apprentice Carpenter, is thrilled to be involved and is obtaining valuable carpentry skills from mentors Justin and Bev Krzywiec who are now well into the second fix carpentry works.

The house is starting to look like a home. The kitchen units have been fitted and bedroom units commenced. The stone stair has been fixed and fibrous plaster arches are almost complete.

Symm Decorators have commenced on the first floor and most of the first fix mechanical and electrical works are complete.

It’s an exciting time watching it all come together and the wet weather (and snow!) is very challenging. There is a great team spirit on site and we are all pulling together to get the project completed as soon as possible.

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Bob Scrivens, Vincent Trarieux, Hugh Bickerton

With an average of 70 tradesmen, the site is extremely busy. Works are progressing rapidly on all fronts with the site divided into three main sections; the main house, the swimming pool works and the listed garden alterations. The internal refit of the main house is progressing from mechanical first fix through to second fix carpentry, with the team of 16 carpenters headed up by Neal Davison all performing brilliantly. Nick Minty and Max Randell continue to shine taking on extra responsibilities. The bricklaying team is under the watchful eye of Tony Daniels and are all undertaking some tricky structural alterations requiring both patience and expertise. Symm Decorators have begun a soft start on site but with over 100 doors, 100 windows and 83 rooms to decorate they have a real task ahead!

The external works are also progressing at full steam. The piles for the swimming pool (52 of them, 10 metres deep) are all installed and tested. On such a tight site it was a feat of engineering just to fit them all in. All under slab drainage has been installed and the insulation layer is progressing well. The listed formal gardens, designed by distinguished architect Edwin Lutyens, are also undergoing gentle restoration with pathways being excavated, steps rebuilt and pergolas reinstated.

Site moral is extremely high (considering the weather conditions!). This is a huge testament to all involved, being able to produce such high-quality workmanship under testing conditions.

SYDMONTON NEW BUILD Managed by: Bryan Richards, Rick Henstridge

On site we are currently installing roof trusses to the main roof. We have already fitted the lower roof over the boot room, workshop and utility room. Bryan Richards is continuing to drive the construction of the grand stone front elevation, along with the rustic looking brick to the remaining elevations. The building is looking good with rubbed brick arches over the brick openings. We are looking forward to getting the chimneys built soon which will mean that the entire roof will be water tight, allowing the mechanical and electrical work to commence. Warburtons are progressing the mechanical and electrical design and C&G Joinery are currently manufacturing the windows. JCA architects are very responsive and keep sending revised drawings every other day which helps us to move the project along. Regarding the recent snow and cold weather, we had 5-foot snow drifts to contend with. The Merlo and a large bucket managed to get the site opened again, which was well received by the client who commented “All clear! Great job by the Symm team digger”. CHELSEA REFURBISHMENT

Managed by: Darius Abromilias, Aron Johnstone

The rear terrace steel works have been completed and face brickwork has gone up to wall plate level. External drainage to the rear court yard basement area has been completed and old brick hearths have been rebuilt on the ground, first and second floors. Mechanical and electrical first fix has been completed from top floor all the way to the ground floor with electrical contractors having started second fix on the fourth floor. The Diathonite insulation plastering system has been completed, along with the lining of walls in timber batten and Elka board on the third and fourth floors. The second floor master and third floor ensuite bathroom internal partitions have been formed. The demolition works have also commenced at the rear between the ground and first floor, removing part of the old ring beam and stone coping.

WENTWORTH NEW BUILDManaged by: David Round, Jason Griffiths, Aron Johnstone

The project has an established well-rounded management team. The latest members to join have been Jason Griffiths as Assistant Site Manager and Piotr Dabek as our Site Labourer.

Jason has made a very impressive start here since joining us in January. He has managed to familiarise himself with the site and its needs in a very short time. His knowledge of the company paperwork and systems of placing orders have been very beneficial and time saving. He has become a very valuable member in a short period of time and has gelled very well with all the sub-contractors on site.

Piotr has come to us from one of the London sites currently coming to completion. He has completed a mobile crane course and is becoming a proficient crane operator in conjunction with other site duties. He has made a good start, and we are happy to have him here as part of the team.

Aron Johnstone, John Goddard and David Round have been here since day one on site and all have an excellent working rapport. We all try to inject some humour throughout the day to make life a little more enjoyable.

In brief, we are lucky to have such a close working team that places its team members first and foremost.

In the last three months we have completed the excavation to the basement and car lift area, all external walls to the basement, in-situ poured concrete slab to the ground floor, internal tanking and block wall, and 80% of the back filling around the structure.

We are now in a position to begin building the external brick walls after installing the stone plinths. Internal block walls will go up at the same time with a provisional date to install first floor planks in the beginning of April.

The site office block is to be demolished then we will relocate to cabins on site.

Knowles, being the main sub-contractor on site, have performed in an outstanding manner. Their approach towards health and safety has been second to none, playing a big part in having no accidents or near misses to date. Their works have been complimented by the brickworks contractor Henley Brick and Stone for their accuracy of setting out.

BELGRAVIA REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Colin Smith, Hugh Bickerton

The project is almost complete and the small team from Symm Joinery, led by Richard Fletcher, Andrew Gee and Tim Hicks, are all putting their skills to the test. Colin Smith has handed over to the finishing foreman. Working alongside Veere Grenney, the Interior Designer, we have installed some amazing finishes. Sam Moss has brought the Symm Decorators’ element to a close with a smile on his face.

HEDSOR PROJECTManaged by: Dion Hutchinson, Kevin McCarthy

The works on site are progressing well. The new garden wall, steps inside and out, column bases and sawn York and Herringbone flooring have all been built / laid by Darren King, Michael Pratley and Jack Lambourne, our Apprentice Bricklayer. A new hipped roof end has been fitted to match the existing along with new skylights, new studwork to the dovecote and new oak windows. This work has been carried out by Paul Slade, John Brown and Jake Florey.

MARLOW PROJECTManaged by: Tony Bowler, Matthew Hogg, Kyle Kilmartin

The building is Grade 1 listed, built circa 1755 overlooking the River Thames just outside Marlow. Over the years it has had many changes; originally a private house up to the 80’s, it was then converted to offices. Our client recently purchased the property and we are now working to return it to its original purpose.

The works Tony Bowler and Matt Hogg are managing is a total refurbishment over 5 floors, with a modern lift, major structural works to form new door openings and a vast marble and finishes schedule. This also involves an extension on the basement to form a new underground plant room which will house the mechanics to run the house including ground source heat pumps with bore holes sunk 150m below ground (tricky when 20m from the river!)

Currently we have finished stud walls to the upper two floors with mechanical and electrical working at a rate of knots, which John Brown and Martin Ward are doing a fantastic job of keeping up with. Merrick completes the Symm team as he is rushing around to keep site looking tidy!

Pershore have their work cut out as the house is having all new sash windows made and a huge internal joinery package, however Robin Turner, Martin Williams and the team are on schedule and have many drawings signed off already.

The roof has seen better days and the client has just approved an up-and-over scaffold to allow us to replace the roof. We have also been instructed to undertake Phase 1b involving a nanny flat, wine cellar and cinema, with the opportunity for more work in Phase 2.

Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

We are currently making some changes within the joinery department. A division wide effort, we have been reflecting on how we have done things in the past and making positive changes for the future. Introducing things like KPI’s and quality records has been challenging on occasion but we look forward to seeing the benefits in the months to come.

Some of the changes we are currently working on include;

• A new project and production management system.

• A new quality control and reporting system giving the guys on the shop floor a voice for making positive changes.

• A review and reworking of our estimating system.

Hopefully, there are lots more things to come in 2018 - we will keep you posted!

SYMM JOINERY UPDATE

When did you start working for Symm?

I started at Symm at the end of December 2017.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy solving complex problems and working with different people.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

I go to the gym, a great place to get rid of some of the stresses of the day… whilst trying to deal with the dadbod.

Outside interests?

I love the gym and eating. The more I go to the gym the more I get to eat without the negative consequences.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Check the ticket… I’m one of life’s pessimists.

What would your superpower be if you could have one?

The ability to keep my two little boys in bed… I haven’t had a lay in for 6 years.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

I’d love to see my grandmother again and introduce her to her two great grandsons.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

A protein shake, beats headphones and my iPhone…. Unless my partner is reading this then it would definitely be her and our two little boys.

If you could trade lives with one person for the entire day, who would it be and why?

Sounds cheesy but I’m quite happy with the life I’ve got, I’ll stick.

Where would your dream holiday be?

I’ve been to some great places and have spent some time diving in the Maldives. I would love to go back to the Maldives with my two little boys.

If you could witness any event, past, present or future, what would it be?

Mmm, tricky one. I guess it would be to see my two little boys grow up and get married.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Anything, I love dancing… only kidding, you will never see me dancing.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

I suck at languages. I’ve lived abroad for many years but have always found it difficult to master the language. I would love the ability to learn different languages quickly.

What would you name the autobiography of your life?

He tried, he really tried.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Rich and famous…. I failed at both.

WHO’S WHO: MARTIN WILLIAMSJOINERY OPERATIONS MANAGER

Cupola for the Marlow project

STUDENT PLACEMENTS

Charlie Johnson

Symm has given me a great opportunity and in-sight into the construction industry. I feel the tuition that I have been given by Symm and its employees has given me an excellent base to start my career within the industry.

I have learned many skills, from how to interact with clients and creating professional relationships, to managing a site effectively by coordinating the team to accommodate each individual’s strengths in order to complete weekly targets in the most efficient and effective way.

One of the highlights I will take away is how Symm is an intergraded community that makes everyone feel welcome.

I feel Symm can evolve the technology side of the business, as investing in newer technologies will give a more competitive edge and make it easier to manage the flow of information to staff on site using different data access points, rather than paper, making the business more efficient and cost effective.

I would like to thank Aron Johnstone for showing me the contracting side of the project. I would also like to thank Peter Payne for always taking the time of day to sit down and talk me through everything step by step to give me a greater understanding and overview of construction site management.

Good luck to you all.

Achatz Cargill

For the past 9 months, I have worked on site with two new build manor houses. I have been responsible for assisting with enforcing the health and safety of the sites, maintaining the overall organisation of the site’s documentation (excluding Construction Phase and RAMS files), managing the site set up and welfare facilities.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Symm, mainly because there was never a time where I had nothing to work towards. Each day has various challenges to confront, which develops specific skills required for me to improve further as a construction professional.

With Symm’s staff, I always receive a welcoming vibe and a sense of a strong team spirit. This creates a positive working environment which gives me a confidence boost on a daily basis to perform exceedingly well.

There has been excellent support in terms of mentoring. Not only am I learning from Symm’s managers, but also from the construction tradesmen on site who are more than happy explaining in-depth about their professions.

With numerous high end projects there are always unique challenges to experience and work to get on with as soon as you start.

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk

SITE UPDATES

ANDOVER PROJECTManaged by: Alan Harper, Nathan Warne, Achatz Cargill and Rick Henstridge

Currently we are progressing well carrying out the final stages of the Main House whilst more work has been instructed externally, including a pool pavilion, workshop extension, stables, walled garden, tractor shed and greenhouse base.

The scaffold strike to the Main House allows for a phenomenal view, especially looking down from the hilltop.

Achatz has enjoyed his time working as a Student Placement, facing challenges head-on and developing a better understanding of what it is like working on site. Kai Logan, our Apprentice Carpenter, is thrilled to be involved and is obtaining valuable carpentry skills from mentors Justin and Bev Krzywiec who are now well into the second fix carpentry works.

The house is starting to look like a home. The kitchen units have been fitted and bedroom units commenced. The stone stair has been fixed and fibrous plaster arches are almost complete.

Symm Decorators have commenced on the first floor and most of the first fix mechanical and electrical works are complete.

It’s an exciting time watching it all come together and the wet weather (and snow!) is very challenging. There is a great team spirit on site and we are all pulling together to get the project completed as soon as possible.

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Bob Scrivens, Vincent Trarieux, Hugh Bickerton

With an average of 70 tradesmen, the site is extremely busy. Works are progressing rapidly on all fronts with the site divided into three main sections; the main house, the swimming pool works and the listed garden alterations. The internal refit of the main house is progressing from mechanical first fix through to second fix carpentry, with the team of 16 carpenters headed up by Neal Davison all performing brilliantly. Nick Minty and Max Randell continue to shine taking on extra responsibilities. The bricklaying team is under the watchful eye of Tony Daniels and are all undertaking some tricky structural alterations requiring both patience and expertise. Symm Decorators have begun a soft start on site but with over 100 doors, 100 windows and 83 rooms to decorate they have a real task ahead!

The external works are also progressing at full steam. The piles for the swimming pool (52 of them, 10 metres deep) are all installed and tested. On such a tight site it was a feat of engineering just to fit them all in. All under slab drainage has been installed and the insulation layer is progressing well. The listed formal gardens, designed by distinguished architect Edwin Lutyens, are also undergoing gentle restoration with pathways being excavated, steps rebuilt and pergolas reinstated.

Site moral is extremely high (considering the weather conditions!). This is a huge testament to all involved, being able to produce such high-quality workmanship under testing conditions.

SYDMONTON NEW BUILD Managed by: Bryan Richards, Rick Henstridge

On site we are currently installing roof trusses to the main roof. We have already fitted the lower roof over the boot room, workshop and utility room. Bryan Richards is continuing to drive the construction of the grand stone front elevation, along with the rustic looking brick to the remaining elevations. The building is looking good with rubbed brick arches over the brick openings. We are looking forward to getting the chimneys built soon which will mean that the entire roof will be water tight, allowing the mechanical and electrical work to commence. Warburtons are progressing the mechanical and electrical design and C&G Joinery are currently manufacturing the windows. JCA architects are very responsive and keep sending revised drawings every other day which helps us to move the project along. Regarding the recent snow and cold weather, we had 5-foot snow drifts to contend with. The Merlo and a large bucket managed to get the site opened again, which was well received by the client who commented “All clear! Great job by the Symm team digger”. CHELSEA REFURBISHMENT

Managed by: Darius Abromilias, Aron Johnstone

The rear terrace steel works have been completed and face brickwork has gone up to wall plate level. External drainage to the rear court yard basement area has been completed and old brick hearths have been rebuilt on the ground, first and second floors. Mechanical and electrical first fix has been completed from top floor all the way to the ground floor with electrical contractors having started second fix on the fourth floor. The Diathonite insulation plastering system has been completed, along with the lining of walls in timber batten and Elka board on the third and fourth floors. The second floor master and third floor ensuite bathroom internal partitions have been formed. The demolition works have also commenced at the rear between the ground and first floor, removing part of the old ring beam and stone coping.

WENTWORTH NEW BUILDManaged by: David Round, Jason Griffiths, Aron Johnstone

The project has an established well-rounded management team. The latest members to join have been Jason Griffiths as Assistant Site Manager and Piotr Dabek as our Site Labourer.

Jason has made a very impressive start here since joining us in January. He has managed to familiarise himself with the site and its needs in a very short time. His knowledge of the company paperwork and systems of placing orders have been very beneficial and time saving. He has become a very valuable member in a short period of time and has gelled very well with all the sub-contractors on site.

Piotr has come to us from one of the London sites currently coming to completion. He has completed a mobile crane course and is becoming a proficient crane operator in conjunction with other site duties. He has made a good start, and we are happy to have him here as part of the team.

Aron Johnstone, John Goddard and David Round have been here since day one on site and all have an excellent working rapport. We all try to inject some humour throughout the day to make life a little more enjoyable.

In brief, we are lucky to have such a close working team that places its team members first and foremost.

In the last three months we have completed the excavation to the basement and car lift area, all external walls to the basement, in-situ poured concrete slab to the ground floor, internal tanking and block wall, and 80% of the back filling around the structure.

We are now in a position to begin building the external brick walls after installing the stone plinths. Internal block walls will go up at the same time with a provisional date to install first floor planks in the beginning of April.

The site office block is to be demolished then we will relocate to cabins on site.

Knowles, being the main sub-contractor on site, have performed in an outstanding manner. Their approach towards health and safety has been second to none, playing a big part in having no accidents or near misses to date. Their works have been complimented by the brickworks contractor Henley Brick and Stone for their accuracy of setting out.

BELGRAVIA REFURBISHMENTManaged by: Colin Smith, Hugh Bickerton

The project is almost complete and the small team from Symm Joinery, led by Richard Fletcher, Andrew Gee and Tim Hicks, are all putting their skills to the test. Colin Smith has handed over to the finishing foreman. Working alongside Veere Grenney, the Interior Designer, we have installed some amazing finishes. Sam Moss has brought the Symm Decorators’ element to a close with a smile on his face.

HEDSOR PROJECTManaged by: Dion Hutchinson, Kevin McCarthy

The works on site are progressing well. The new garden wall, steps inside and out, column bases and sawn York and Herringbone flooring have all been built / laid by Darren King, Michael Pratley and Jack Lambourne, our Apprentice Bricklayer. A new hipped roof end has been fitted to match the existing along with new skylights, new studwork to the dovecote and new oak windows. This work has been carried out by Paul Slade, John Brown and Jake Florey.

MARLOW PROJECTManaged by: Tony Bowler, Matthew Hogg, Kyle Kilmartin

The building is Grade 1 listed, built circa 1755 overlooking the River Thames just outside Marlow. Over the years it has had many changes; originally a private house up to the 80’s, it was then converted to offices. Our client recently purchased the property and we are now working to return it to its original purpose.

The works Tony Bowler and Matt Hogg are managing is a total refurbishment over 5 floors, with a modern lift, major structural works to form new door openings and a vast marble and finishes schedule. This also involves an extension on the basement to form a new underground plant room which will house the mechanics to run the house including ground source heat pumps with bore holes sunk 150m below ground (tricky when 20m from the river!)

Currently we have finished stud walls to the upper two floors with mechanical and electrical working at a rate of knots, which John Brown and Martin Ward are doing a fantastic job of keeping up with. Merrick completes the Symm team as he is rushing around to keep site looking tidy!

Pershore have their work cut out as the house is having all new sash windows made and a huge internal joinery package, however Robin Turner, Martin Williams and the team are on schedule and have many drawings signed off already.

The roof has seen better days and the client has just approved an up-and-over scaffold to allow us to replace the roof. We have also been instructed to undertake Phase 1b involving a nanny flat, wine cellar and cinema, with the opportunity for more work in Phase 2.

Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

We are currently making some changes within the joinery department. A division wide effort, we have been reflecting on how we have done things in the past and making positive changes for the future. Introducing things like KPI’s and quality records has been challenging on occasion but we look forward to seeing the benefits in the months to come.

Some of the changes we are currently working on include;

• A new project and production management system.

• A new quality control and reporting system giving the guys on the shop floor a voice for making positive changes.

• A review and reworking of our estimating system.

Hopefully, there are lots more things to come in 2018 - we will keep you posted!

SYMM JOINERY UPDATE

When did you start working for Symm?

I started at Symm at the end of December 2017.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy solving complex problems and working with different people.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

I go to the gym, a great place to get rid of some of the stresses of the day… whilst trying to deal with the dadbod.

Outside interests?

I love the gym and eating. The more I go to the gym the more I get to eat without the negative consequences.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Check the ticket… I’m one of life’s pessimists.

What would your superpower be if you could have one?

The ability to keep my two little boys in bed… I haven’t had a lay in for 6 years.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

I’d love to see my grandmother again and introduce her to her two great grandsons.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

A protein shake, beats headphones and my iPhone…. Unless my partner is reading this then it would definitely be her and our two little boys.

If you could trade lives with one person for the entire day, who would it be and why?

Sounds cheesy but I’m quite happy with the life I’ve got, I’ll stick.

Where would your dream holiday be?

I’ve been to some great places and have spent some time diving in the Maldives. I would love to go back to the Maldives with my two little boys.

If you could witness any event, past, present or future, what would it be?

Mmm, tricky one. I guess it would be to see my two little boys grow up and get married.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Anything, I love dancing… only kidding, you will never see me dancing.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

I suck at languages. I’ve lived abroad for many years but have always found it difficult to master the language. I would love the ability to learn different languages quickly.

What would you name the autobiography of your life?

He tried, he really tried.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Rich and famous…. I failed at both.

WHO’S WHO: MARTIN WILLIAMSJOINERY OPERATIONS MANAGER

Cupola for the Marlow project

STUDENT PLACEMENTS

Charlie Johnson

Symm has given me a great opportunity and in-sight into the construction industry. I feel the tuition that I have been given by Symm and its employees has given me an excellent base to start my career within the industry.

I have learned many skills, from how to interact with clients and creating professional relationships, to managing a site effectively by coordinating the team to accommodate each individual’s strengths in order to complete weekly targets in the most efficient and effective way.

One of the highlights I will take away is how Symm is an intergraded community that makes everyone feel welcome.

I feel Symm can evolve the technology side of the business, as investing in newer technologies will give a more competitive edge and make it easier to manage the flow of information to staff on site using different data access points, rather than paper, making the business more efficient and cost effective.

I would like to thank Aron Johnstone for showing me the contracting side of the project. I would also like to thank Peter Payne for always taking the time of day to sit down and talk me through everything step by step to give me a greater understanding and overview of construction site management.

Good luck to you all.

Achatz Cargill

For the past 9 months, I have worked on site with two new build manor houses. I have been responsible for assisting with enforcing the health and safety of the sites, maintaining the overall organisation of the site’s documentation (excluding Construction Phase and RAMS files), managing the site set up and welfare facilities.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Symm, mainly because there was never a time where I had nothing to work towards. Each day has various challenges to confront, which develops specific skills required for me to improve further as a construction professional.

With Symm’s staff, I always receive a welcoming vibe and a sense of a strong team spirit. This creates a positive working environment which gives me a confidence boost on a daily basis to perform exceedingly well.

There has been excellent support in terms of mentoring. Not only am I learning from Symm’s managers, but also from the construction tradesmen on site who are more than happy explaining in-depth about their professions.

With numerous high end projects there are always unique challenges to experience and work to get on with as soon as you start.

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk

APRIL 2018 ISSUE 28SYMM.CO.UK

Symm Decorators have been keeping very busy. We have been meeting new clients and taking on more independent work. Wallpapering seems to be very much the trend at the moment with us recently hanging papers across Oxfordshire and London. A very challenging contract in particular was in Mayfair, where we had to apply various papers to ceiling bays which had to be cut to differing shapes and sizes.

Paul Morrison and his team have just completed the external decoration for a long-term client and are currently working on new windows for our project near Marlow.

Paul Matthews and his team are currently decorating an apartment at Neo Bankside in London which has also involved us project managing some other trades.

Dan Wright and his team are working at the Stow-on-the-Wold project and undertaking lots of preparation work involving stripping woodwork and stone.

We have also begun working at the Andover project, with internal decorations now underway and Paul Davies taking the lead hand for us and doing a great job.

On the administration side of the department we have taken great steps in using the new COINS ordering facility. All our team have been trained and are ‘live’. This means all ordering is online, no paper is needed and time will be saved by all involved in the processing of invoices! This is to be rolled out across the company over the next few months so we look forward to everyone coming on board. It may sound daunting at first but it’s quite straight forward after a couple of trials.

To summarise we are very busy and those that I have not mentioned within the team are all working very hard and doing a fantastic job. Here’s to a very prosperous 2018!

SYMM DECORATORS

It has been a consistently busy year for Sharp and Howse. We have a healthy workload completed this year in the Contracts Department with a significant number of projects already secured for the coming year.

Service Department By Alexa MacArthur, Service Administrator

We are proud of our engineer Dan Simmonds who has recently completed his commercial gas course - well done!

The long and cold winter has been testing for many heating systems. We have been very busy with call-outs and getting repairs sorted as quickly as possible. We would always recommend that annual boiler servicing is carried out as it may identify any problems with your boiler and address them before they do any major damage.

Problems with your boiler, no matter how small they may be, will only get worse the longer you ignore them.

The service department within Sharp and Howse is continuing to grow with a high workload and we welcome Stuart Bishop to the team.

Chippinghurst Manor By Gary Gillett, Symm Building Site Supervisor

The task of the work at Chippinghurst Manor is to remove and replace the old iron heating system with a new stainless-steel pipework system.

The problem was that the iron pipework was under the floor running through the kitchen, dining room and main hallway of a 16th century period property.

Two weeks of protection work was required before a hammer could be lifted, which proved to be a hard task.

Breaking out old duct work was no easy task, but was carried out well by Darren Blacker, Jake Florey, Corey Lynch and Scott Blacker who removed very old slabs and some dodgy 80’s duct work.

Liam Clarke of Sharp and Howse has the task of re instating the stainless-steel pipework system which is all crimped with no soldered joints in very cramped conditions. Liam has now filled and pressure tested and all is good.

Darren Blacker is now laying 35m of new stone slabs on top of a more robust accessible ducting.

SHARP AND HOWSE UPDATE

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

STARTERS

LEAVERS

DON’T FORGET!

We would like to welcome the following people to Symm:

Matthew O’Keeffe (Surveyor), Mark Tutin (Labourer), Lewis Maskens (Labourer), Catherine Sneade (Contracts Administrator, Abbotswood), Stuart Bishop (Service Engineer, Sharp and Howse) and Paul Martin (Estimator) who has returned to Symm after a short time away.

We would like to say farewell to the following and wish them the best of luck in their new ventures:

Aleksandra Niemiec (Surveyor), Eamon Parker (Carpenter), Tom Kogel (Carpenter), Nathan Stacey (Carpenter) Richard McCartney (Labourer) and Andy Brown (Sharp and Howse).

If you are a member of BUPA, you can claim £100 towards glasses every 2 years.

For more information on how to claim, please contact HR.

BLENHEIM PALACE TRIATHLON

TEABREAK TEASER - CAN YOU SPOT THE 8 DIFFERENCES?

Making a donation to the charity is very easy – simply visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/symm-group

When did you start working for Sharp and Howse?

June 2016.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The comradery of the small team here all working together getting the projects completed.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

Take Myrtle (our pup) out for a walk.

Outside interests?

Walking the dog in the countryside at home. Try and do a good few miles every weekend.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Build a big house and get S+H to do the mechanical package.

WHO’S WHO: MATTHEW SKINNER ESTIMATOR/SURVEYOR, SHARP AND HOWSE

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Douglas Adams and then go for a pint with him.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

Complete collection of Douglas Adams books, MP3 player and a black handled pen knife.

If you could be any fictional character who would you be and why?

Ford Prefect, seemed happy with things and his towel.

Where would your dream holiday be?

My wife loves Sweden, I have never been but would love to go.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Born Slippy by Underworld

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3 Team 4

Swimmer 750m Gary Bennell Steve Godfrey Phil Morton Alexa MacArthur

Cyclist 19.8km Matthew O’Keeffe Mark Reay Peter Payne Mark Wittet

Runner 5.4km Joseph Rimmer Adam Styles Nick Minty Kai Logan

If you’d like to come and support our teams and spend a day in the magnificent Blenheim Palace grounds, please email amym@symm.co.uk as discounted spectator tickets for the Sunday will be available! We’d love to see as many friendly faces cheering our teams on as possible!

If you’d like to help with fundraising for the event please share this link far and wide! It’ll have a live story consisting of fundraising progress and training updates.

Last year’s event was spectacular, resulting in a collection of medals, treasured memories, aches and pains, and a huge £2,000 in donations raised for the event’s chosen charity, and very worthy recipient, Bloodwise.

This year we’re upping our game! On Sunday 3 June 2018 4 teams consisting of both Symm and Sharp and Howse will swim, cycle and run a combined distance of 103.8km before the day is out (hopefully!)

APRIL 2018 ISSUE 28SYMM.CO.UK

Symm Decorators have been keeping very busy. We have been meeting new clients and taking on more independent work. Wallpapering seems to be very much the trend at the moment with us recently hanging papers across Oxfordshire and London. A very challenging contract in particular was in Mayfair, where we had to apply various papers to ceiling bays which had to be cut to differing shapes and sizes.

Paul Morrison and his team have just completed the external decoration for a long-term client and are currently working on new windows for our project near Marlow.

Paul Matthews and his team are currently decorating an apartment at Neo Bankside in London which has also involved us project managing some other trades.

Dan Wright and his team are working at the Stow-on-the-Wold project and undertaking lots of preparation work involving stripping woodwork and stone.

We have also begun working at the Andover project, with internal decorations now underway and Paul Davies taking the lead hand for us and doing a great job.

On the administration side of the department we have taken great steps in using the new COINS ordering facility. All our team have been trained and are ‘live’. This means all ordering is online, no paper is needed and time will be saved by all involved in the processing of invoices! This is to be rolled out across the company over the next few months so we look forward to everyone coming on board. It may sound daunting at first but it’s quite straight forward after a couple of trials.

To summarise we are very busy and those that I have not mentioned within the team are all working very hard and doing a fantastic job. Here’s to a very prosperous 2018!

SYMM DECORATORS

It has been a consistently busy year for Sharp and Howse. We have a healthy workload completed this year in the Contracts Department with a significant number of projects already secured for the coming year.

Service Department By Alexa MacArthur, Service Administrator

We are proud of our engineer Dan Simmonds who has recently completed his commercial gas course - well done!

The long and cold winter has been testing for many heating systems. We have been very busy with call-outs and getting repairs sorted as quickly as possible. We would always recommend that annual boiler servicing is carried out as it may identify any problems with your boiler and address them before they do any major damage.

Problems with your boiler, no matter how small they may be, will only get worse the longer you ignore them.

The service department within Sharp and Howse is continuing to grow with a high workload and we welcome Stuart Bishop to the team.

Chippinghurst Manor By Gary Gillett, Symm Building Site Supervisor

The task of the work at Chippinghurst Manor is to remove and replace the old iron heating system with a new stainless-steel pipework system.

The problem was that the iron pipework was under the floor running through the kitchen, dining room and main hallway of a 16th century period property.

Two weeks of protection work was required before a hammer could be lifted, which proved to be a hard task.

Breaking out old duct work was no easy task, but was carried out well by Darren Blacker, Jake Florey, Corey Lynch and Scott Blacker who removed very old slabs and some dodgy 80’s duct work.

Liam Clarke of Sharp and Howse has the task of re instating the stainless-steel pipework system which is all crimped with no soldered joints in very cramped conditions. Liam has now filled and pressure tested and all is good.

Darren Blacker is now laying 35m of new stone slabs on top of a more robust accessible ducting.

SHARP AND HOWSE UPDATE

If you have anything that you would like to be included in future issues then please email Amy at amym@symm.co.uk Employee Assistance Programme - 0800 048 2702 - www.unumlifeworks.co.uk User ID: unum Password: lifeworks

STARTERS

LEAVERS

DON’T FORGET!

We would like to welcome the following people to Symm:

Matthew O’Keeffe (Surveyor), Mark Tutin (Labourer), Lewis Maskens (Labourer), Catherine Sneade (Contracts Administrator, Abbotswood), Stuart Bishop (Service Engineer, Sharp and Howse) and Paul Martin (Estimator) who has returned to Symm after a short time away.

We would like to say farewell to the following and wish them the best of luck in their new ventures:

Aleksandra Niemiec (Surveyor), Eamon Parker (Carpenter), Tom Kogel (Carpenter), Nathan Stacey (Carpenter) Richard McCartney (Labourer) and Andy Brown (Sharp and Howse).

If you are a member of BUPA, you can claim £100 towards glasses every 2 years.

For more information on how to claim, please contact HR.

BLENHEIM PALACE TRIATHLON

TEABREAK TEASER - CAN YOU SPOT THE 8 DIFFERENCES?

Making a donation to the charity is very easy – simply visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/symm-group

When did you start working for Sharp and Howse?

June 2016.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The comradery of the small team here all working together getting the projects completed.

How do you wind down after a long day at work?

Take Myrtle (our pup) out for a walk.

Outside interests?

Walking the dog in the countryside at home. Try and do a good few miles every weekend.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

Build a big house and get S+H to do the mechanical package.

WHO’S WHO: MATTHEW SKINNER ESTIMATOR/SURVEYOR, SHARP AND HOWSE

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Douglas Adams and then go for a pint with him.

What 3 items would you take with you on a desert island?

Complete collection of Douglas Adams books, MP3 player and a black handled pen knife.

If you could be any fictional character who would you be and why?

Ford Prefect, seemed happy with things and his towel.

Where would your dream holiday be?

My wife loves Sweden, I have never been but would love to go.

What song gets you on the dance floor?

Born Slippy by Underworld

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3 Team 4

Swimmer 750m Gary Bennell Steve Godfrey Phil Morton Alexa MacArthur

Cyclist 19.8km Matthew O’Keeffe Mark Reay Peter Payne Mark Wittet

Runner 5.4km Joseph Rimmer Adam Styles Nick Minty Kai Logan

If you’d like to come and support our teams and spend a day in the magnificent Blenheim Palace grounds, please email amym@symm.co.uk as discounted spectator tickets for the Sunday will be available! We’d love to see as many friendly faces cheering our teams on as possible!

If you’d like to help with fundraising for the event please share this link far and wide! It’ll have a live story consisting of fundraising progress and training updates.

Last year’s event was spectacular, resulting in a collection of medals, treasured memories, aches and pains, and a huge £2,000 in donations raised for the event’s chosen charity, and very worthy recipient, Bloodwise.

This year we’re upping our game! On Sunday 3 June 2018 4 teams consisting of both Symm and Sharp and Howse will swim, cycle and run a combined distance of 103.8km before the day is out (hopefully!)