The 175 years’ combined service accrued by five employees at Howarth Timber’s York branch comes in the same year the company celebrates its 175th anniversary.

David Marshall, Steve Winters, Chris Peart, Kevin Robertson and David Fogg have each clocked up more than 30 years’ service with the company. Mr Peart recently celebrated 30 years with the branch, while Mr Fogg is the longest-serving employee, with 44 years under his belt.

Since its founding in 1840, Howarth Timber prides itself on its timber-related offering, as well as providing what the company describes as among the most comprehensive choices of building materials in the country. It has marked its anniversary year with a host of events, promotions and special offers for its customers.

Mr Robertson, a sales executive at the company, said: “We’ve all enjoyed our time at Howarth Timber and between us there’s nothing we don’t know about the building industry. Customers can rest assured that if they have a question about timber or building, between us we will know the answer.”

Kevin Withers, regional manager of Howarth Timber’s York branch, said: “The longevity of our staff here is testament to what kind of company Howarth Timber is to work for. It’s little wonder that the company has been around for this long and we’re confident that the business will be here for at least another 175 years.”