A PROJECT manager who spent 40 years at the helm of construction in the town has retired.

Bob Fay has hung up his hard hat after four decades at Dorcan-based construction firm Beard.

The seasoned project manager started working for Beard in 1975 at the suggestion of a friend. His job was as a site manager in Chippenham where he managed the construction of a block of flats in the town.

He soon rose through the ranks to become a successful project leader and managed many successful projects across the South-west including new schools and state-of-the-art sports and leisure centres.

He celebrated with a bottle of champagne and a send-off from all of his work colleagues.

Bob said he would miss the ‘family’ working environment that had been his home for 40 years.

“It’s been a pleasure to work for Beard,” Bob said.

“One of the things I like most about the company is that if you’re not sure about something there is always someone willing to help. The family-business aspect trickles down through the company and because of that everyone works together as a team.

“I like that Beard is a straightforward, reliable company which is happy to put right anything it has done wrong. “

And Bob had some sage advice for budding project managers who were looking to get involved in the construction world.

“Another thing I really like is all the training that the company offers. I would recommend anyone joining the industry to take as much training as you can. It means that you can understand your job better and move forward in your career. “

Bob plans to spend his retirement exploring Great Britain on his motorbike with trips to the Eden Project, Lake District and Scottish Highlands planned. When he has completed those he has planned further motorbike tours abroad.

Marc Bayley, Beard Swindon director said Bob would be sorely missed by the company.

“We are most grateful to Bob for his 40 years service with Beard. He has been a valued member of our Swindon team who has made a significant contribution to the firm’s success over the years,” Marc said.

“Since joining us in 1975, Bob has completed hundreds of construction projects, helping us grow the company through prompt and faultless project delivery. While we shall all miss him, we wish him an excellent road trip and a very happy retirement with many great adventures ahead.”