New Bagnalls website - www.airportpainting.co.uk

Bagnalls has launched a specialist website for airport painting.  As a specialist painting, decorating and coatings contractor we have the capability of undertaking all types of work both land and airside.  Our teams of security passed and trained personnel ensure that all works are managed within the strict security requirements and time demands of an airport.  Flexible out of hours working means that painting works can be undertaken during the “quietest” periods to minimise disruption to both air passengers and airport personnel.

Bagnalls Paint Flagship Shopping Centre in Centre of Cardiff

Bagnalls completed the decoration works to a new build, city centre flagship shopping mall and residential accommodation in Cardiff.  The painting works at St Davids shopping centre, took a total of 18 months to complete.

The package of works included all decoration works to the extensive new build “centre piece” retail shopping mall, 300 residential apartments, car parking facilities and the retail flagship store for John Lewis, at the southern end of the site.  The project was completed on behalf of Land Securities via main contractor Bovis Lend Lease.

Our dedicated team of directly employed site personnel, all registered under the CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme), completed the project to extremely tight timescales to meet the opening date on Thursday 21st  October, 2009.

Bagnalls Paints a Brighter Future for Local Children

Bagnalls painters, Trevor Bailey and Martin Bostock recently took part in a community project at Anderton Park School in Birmingham.  A number of volunteers from National Grid and its subcontract partners took part in a fun-filled day of maintenance, planting and painting to rejuvenate the school for the local children.

Both painters received a certificate of thanks for taking part in the community initiative.

Ever Improving Apprentices

Bagnalls Doncaster had two successful apprentice wins at the recent  Doncaster area PDA awards, held at Castle Park, the home of the Doncaster Knights Rugby Union Club. Robert Burnett, was awarded winner of the most improved 2nd year apprentice and Steven Milner, winner of most improved 1st year apprentice.  Neil Ogilvie, National President of the PDA, delivered the awards to the worthy recipients.  Richard Britten, Branch Manager said “Both lads have demonstrated a keen commitment to learning and developing their skills in our industry and we are very proud that their achievements have been recognised.”

Pictured: Neil Ogilvie, Rob Burnett, Steven Milner and Richard Britten.

New Lease of Life for Industrial Estate

Bagnalls recently painted the cladding and exteriors of Commercial Estates, Harrogate.  A specialist paint system was applied from  Syntema Paints called Temaclad to rejuvenate the externals of the industrial units from a weathered cream and red exterior to a striking  blue, cream and grey finish.

Bagnalls Makes a Splash at the Dome!

Following on from the pool refurbishment late last year – Bagnalls has just finished the coating works to the internal and external steelwork of the Dome Leisure Centre in Doncaster.  PPG Architectural Coatings specified their Johnstone’s Steel and cladding specialist paint products to offer protection against the elements as well as resulting in a superb black finish.

The Dome is a landmark building in Doncaster and used for a wide variety of purposes from swimming and ice skating to hosting concerts and comedians.

Bagnalls Win the Heat

Bagnalls recently completed works for Calor Gas (Homeheat) in Blackpool.  All works had to be completed to a tight deadline so Bagnalls set up the job and finished it within 100 hours.

The specification required grit blasting of the vessel to prepare the surface followed by the application of a full system including primers and 2 pack polyurethane coatings.  All works were inspected by a Calor Gas independent paint inspector on a daily basis to ensure all preparation and painting was applied to the correct thickness and quality.   On completion, Bagnalls applied the final touches by re-instating all signage to the vessel by stencilling.

Calor Gas personnel were absolutely thrilled with the standards received from Bagnalls.

Warwickshire College - Prospero House Redecoration

Warwickshire College is one of the UK's largest general further and higher education colleges with more than 25,000 students.   In the Summer of 2009 Bagnalls East Midlands Office  were asked to provide a quote for the decoration of Prospero House, a hall of residence at their Leamington Spa campus.

The work was completed as programmed during the summer holiday period and involved the redecoration of the external rendering and woodwork as well as the redecoration of several internal areas. As Prospero House is situated alongside a busy road Bagnalls advised Warwickshire College to use Johnstone’s Self-Cleaning Masonry Paint, a cost-effective solution designed to keep buildings “looking cleaner for longer and resist the dulling effects of pollution, weathering and time.”  The high level external painting was carried out using a mobile elevated working platform operated by a trained Bagnalls operative.

When applied, Johnstone’s Stormshield Self-Cleaning Masonry attracts rather than repels water, “any dirt particles that may be present are therefore simply washed away by rain to leave a streak-free finish.”

Project Manager Cary Shephard stated: “he was very happy with the service and would use Bagnalls again in the future”.

Painting a Greener Future

Bagnalls is working in partnership with City of York Council and ICI Paints to undertake a water based paint trial to part of the council’s portfolio.  The Dulux Trade Weathershield system has been used to provide protection for up to six years.  Bagnalls was chosen for the project due its support of the council’s sustainable objectives. 

Bagnalls, Dulux and City of York council are show casing our joint achievements at the National Railway Museum in November.  Presentations by each of the parties will be given as well as “live” product demonstrations by time served Bagnalls painters and also the opportunity to visit the project site. If you are interested in attending the event then please send your name and contact details to info@bagnalls.co.uk before Friday 6th November 2009.

External Redecoration of Leicester City Schools

As both an Exor Gold Accredited and Constructionline registered firm Bagnalls successfully tendered for the Finishes section of Leicester City Council’s Measured Term Contract for reactive maintenance set against a National Schedule of Rates.

We have since been referred to as Leicester City Council’s painting contractor on commercial properties for 2009/10.

There have been a number of finished projects so far including Alderman & Richard Hallam School, Rushey Mead Primary, Inglehurst Primary School, Humberstone Infants and Junior School, Ellesmere College, Medway Primary School and Scraptoft Valley.

Bagnalls Paints at Great Heights

Bagnalls has been undertaking painting works for SPENCER on the main cables that support the Humber Bridge, one of the world’s longest, single span suspension bridges.

With an anticipated life span of 120 years, the Humber Bridge, opened in 1981, requires constant maintenance.  SPENCER are facilitating the inspection of  the main cables at eight locations by Flint & Neill, on site Engineer for the Humber Bridge Board.  The contract necessitates the replacement of the external circumferential wrapping wire following internal inspection at each location.  100km of 3.5mm galvanized wire has been used at these locations with the final protective coating applied by Bagnalls.  The works are highly dependent on the weather being clement and the bridge is constantly moving, a light wind at ground level can feel quite different 150 metres off the ground.

As a specialist painting contractor, Bagnalls has been subcontracted to T-wash the newly replaced cable casing and then apply a primer and two coats of a 2 pack specialist coating, specified by Flint & Neill, to ensure the long term cyclical maintenance requirements of the Humber Bridge Board.

"This photograph is used with the kind permission of the Humber Bridge Board and SPENCER"

Meeting Challenges Head On!

Bagnalls are used to meeting the needs of customers, no matter how challenging the task.  The Estates Manager at a NHS Foundation Trust praised the delivery of the painting services by the Bagnalls North West team, in what were evidently very tricky conditions.

"I felt I had to drop you a line to thank you for completing the works to Ward B6 in difficult circumstances. The lads had to work to an extremely tight schedule whilst a number of other contractors were working within the same space."

Painting Makes a Big Impact

Bagnalls recently painted a vessel for GB Oils in the Midlands.  It had been some time since the vessel had been painted and a great deal of pre-paint preparation had to take place to ensure the quality of the final paint finish.  Bagnalls applied a Hempel Paints specification and the results are quite dramatic proving quality workmanship can deliver great results.

On completion of the works, J Carnall, Depot Manager, added “ We are very pleased with the work.  The painters were hard working and polite.’’

Bagnalls Take on New Apprentice!!

If only – we are sure Jaws, the famous 007 Bond film actor would no doubt make an excellent painter if ever he fancied a career change.  Jaws was a special guest at a recent fund-raising golf day for the North East Army Benevolent Fund.  Local companies, including Bagnalls, helped to raise a whopping £4,440 for the Soldiers’ Charity.

Painting the Future Together

Brian Shaw, Managing Director of Purdy International, visited the Bagnalls’ Painting Academy in Doncaster to present Julie Taylor, with a pack of Monarch Purdy brushes.    Julie was the representative for the 33 Bagnalls employees who successfully completed their apprenticeship in the academic year 2007-2009.

Bagnalls has demonstrated its commitment to apprentices over the years and this message was reinforced by Brian’s comments “Training is key to Purdy so we have invested in a nationwide incentive to give every successful apprentice a set of our top of the range Monarch synthetic brushes to set them on their way in what we hope will be a very successful career in painting and decorating.”

“The pack is worth around £75 and if looked after and cleaned properly after use they will last up to five times longer than conventional bristle brushes.  This generation of apprentices will lead the way in the use of synthetic brushes alongside paints which meet the 2010 environmental legislation.”

Julie has excelled throughout her apprenticeship and was also awarded the Personal Achiever Award by Doncaster College at an Awards Ceremony held at the Hub in December 2008.

City of York Council Support Investment in Training & Development

Key personnel from City of York’s Asset Management Group visited Bagnalls Painting Academy in Doncaster in July 2009.

The visit was organised to allow Bagnalls to demonstrate its commitment to the training and development of apprentices as well as testing innovative new products by leading paint manufacturers.

A number of demonstrations were undertaken including anti-graffiti products Easy On and Easy Off, paper hanging and working at height using the Microlite Ladderfix System.   The main topic of conversation was the environment and the significant progress in paint technology that is being made to meet the requirements of the 2010 legislation.  Bagnalls has supported the drive for more environmentally friendly paints by undertaking blind testing of products in the academy and on site, and offering fundamental feedback to the paint manufacturers.

Steve Lawson (Senior Projects Surveyor) of City of York Council said “It’s great to see apprentices from York being trained in paper hanging and working safely off ladders. The commitment made by  contractors, such as Bagnalls, to training supports the council’s targets for quality, customer satisfaction and innovation.”   

Great Hall Redecorations win Prestigious Painting & Decorating Association Award

Plaisterers' Hall is one of the finest Livery Halls in the centre of London and reflects the splendour of a bygone era but in a very modern setting.

Bagnalls was commissioned to redecorate the Great Hall due to our experience as a decorative contractor.  Bagnalls heritage dates back to 1875 when the company was established by Alfred Bagnall and the company has remained family owned and managed ever since. 

Plaisterers’ Hall is now a busy venue for weddings, conferences and functions in the heart of London.  To ensure that disruption to trade was kept to an absolute minimum Bagnalls undertook the painting works in a very tight window over the Christmas and New Year period.

The job was entered for the Painting & Decorating Association’s National Trophy Awards and won a Very Highly Commended certificate for excellent project management and high quality of finish.

Bagnalls Wins RoSPA Award for Safety Initiatives at Severn Trent Water

Bagnalls was awarded a Silver RoSPA/Severn Trent Water Occupational Health & Safety Award at a ceremony held at The Pavilion at the NEC, Birmingham on Thursday 2nd July 2009. 

Bagnalls award was in recognition of its overall commitment to safety as well as an innovative system of working which has now been adopted by all Severn Trent Water’s contractors.  This system ensures that only authorised personnel work on site with all the requisite risk assessments undertaken, method statements in place and permits to work granted. 

 “With Severn Trent Water’s support over the years we have developed our safe systems of work to become a leading contractor on site.  We have shared best practice with our supply chain to ensure that they adopt our safe working practices and deliver their service in line with Severn Trent Water’s requirements.  Cooperation, training, teamwork and continual improvement have resulted in Bagnalls winning this award.  We are very proud of the commitment to safety that our personnel demonstrate and that of our subcontract partners.” stated Andrew Naylor, Branch Manager of the Building Maintenance division.

Fleet Tracking  System Drives Environmental Targets at Bagnalls

Bagnalls has invested in the latest fleet tracking systems from Masternaut in order to drive environmental efficiencies into the delivery of its services nationwide.  As a leading painting and decorating contractor with customers located all over the UK it is necessary to have a satellite tracking service to monitor the company’s vehicle fleet. The web-based technology allows Bagnalls to plan journeys more effectively, monitor fuel consumption and ensure that painters get to site on time. 

Stephen Bagnall, Managing Director says “The Masternaut Three X service has delivered benefits on a number of levels.  We have a reputation for being reliable and using this innovative tool we are able to manage our service delivery more efficiently and effectively.  In addition, we often work on remote sites so to ensure the health and safety of our workforce it is essential that we know the position of our vans at any point in time.  We are also using the service to support drive our policy for the environment.  We can make significant reductions in our carbon footprint by optimising the use of personnel and vans across our 15 strong branch network.”

Celebrating Achievement

Bagnalls was  awarded a trophy for our commitment to training at A Celebration of Achievement Event held at Newcastle Civic Centre.  

“This award means a lot to us.  Bagnalls has a passion for training and developing employees and receiving recognition for our activities is the icing on the cake.” said Chris Leach of Bagnalls North East.

Fire Fighters or Painters!

In January this year a smoke alarm sounded on a job we were working on.  Everyone was evacuated from the building and a head count taken.  Two of our own personnel were not accounted for and on investigation there was no fire but one of the resident’s flats was full of smoke and our painters, Kenny Williams and Simon Bennison, stepped in to help.

The resident was very distressed and our painters helped calm her down, open windows and waited with her until the Fire Brigade arrived.  No one was harmed during the incident but if our painters hadn’t acted as promptly as they did, things could have been a lot worse.  All the residents of Blackhall Croft were very grateful for the action taken by the painters.

Station Gets a Facelift

Bagnalls has recently completed the redecorations to Network Rail’s Filey station.  The listed building was in need of a facelift and Bagnalls were employed to undertake the works.  With PTS (Personal Track Safety) trained personnel and Link Up Proof status we have the required competencies and safe systems of work to undertake the job in line with Network Rail requirements.

One of our painters Graham Wilby, worked on the station 20 years earlier when he was working for British Rail’s maintenance division.   Back then he was part of a team that re-roofed the whole building “It’s not on such a big scale this time.  The whole roof was replaced then and now we’re just painting the exterior.  I think its worn pretty well over the years.”

'Picture courtesy of Scarborough Evening News'

A Little Tender Loving Painting (TLP) Goes a Long Way!!

Bagnalls has the national contract to paint every single BOC vessel in the country from John O’Groats to Land’s End.  We have managed this contract successfully for BOC for a number of years and satisfied many of their customers with our service delivery.  BOC vessels are found in all sorts of locations from factories to utility companies.  The pictures here show the difference pre-paint preparation and painting can make  – a little TLP goes a long way!  This painting service is provided by BOC to its customers nationwide, free of charge.

Pictured Before & After at AWE Aldermaston, pictures provided by Inventory & Asset Management

The Lyke Wake Walk - not for Lightweights!

Bagnalls Board committed, in a moment of madness, to a team building event, to undertake the Lyke Wake Walk, a 40 mile stroll, across North Yorkshire’s finest dales, from Osmotherly to Ravenscar, all within 24 hours !! to raise money for two Children’s Charities.

The final assault team consisted of Graeme “the compass” Johnson, Mike “dehydrated” Davenport, and Paul “the map” Curry, ably supported by Team Volvo, namely John Kirkham and Joanne Gualda, in the rescue vehicles.

At 16.20 pm on the 15th May 2009, the intrepid expedition commenced.  They met Team Volvo, at several agreed checkpoints along the way, who were always ready with drinks and snacks and words of encouragement.

Unfortunately, Paul had to give up having completed 25 miles but Mike and Graeme continued and finished the 40 miles, well actually, due to the slight detour, 45 miles, in 19 hours.

Residents Thank Bagnalls for a Job Well Done

Bagnalls pays particular attention to ensuring that it puts the right teams on the right jobs at the right times.  We understand that the needs of one customer greatly differ from those of another and therefore use our resources in a flexible way.  Recent redecoration work undertaken for Peverel Management Services for Blackhall Croft Residents Association was one such occasion where delivering customer service in the right way was essential. 

Mr Bamford, Secretary of the Residents Association wrote to us recently to thank us for the service we provided “We were particularly impressed by the way in which your employees carried out their work quietly and tidily, and were always courteous and obliging.  Their friendly smiles were also enjoyed.  We all hope that your decorating firm will be available the next time there is a decorating job here.”

Photography by Simon Vine

What an Achievement!

Julie Taylor, 3rd year Apprentice with Bagnalls Doncaster has been awarded the Personal Achiever Award by Doncaster College at an Awards Ceremony held at the Hub on Monday 15th December.  Julie was competing with apprentices from all the other faculties including mining, hairdressing, IT and accountancy.  Richard Britten, Branch Manager at Doncaster nominated her for the award “Julie, has really proved herself over the past 2 years and I felt that her achievements should be recognised.  We are very proud that she has won this award, it is a great credit to her.”

Richard Britten was also nominated as Employer of the Year by the apprentices at Bagnalls Doncaster and was one of the nominated Finalists.

Bagnalls, Barclays and Barnados – Together We Make a Difference

Bagnalls recently donated some decorating equipment to a Community Day event, organised by Barclays Bank for 40 young care leavers from Barnado’s Reach Out at Heanor, Lincolnshire & Doncaster Leaving Care projects.

Barclays put together 40 starter packs for each of the individuals in the 3 areas.  Bagnalls donation of decorating equipment will be loaned out to the leavers as they are ready to make the improvements to their first home.

David Marks, Head of Sales for Barclays said ”Thank you so much for enabling us to provide such a fantastic experience for these children.  It is people like yourselves that make a difference when a group such as this walk away feeling that people really do care and believe in them.  Together we made a difference.”

Bagnalls Doncaster Make a Splash!

Bagnalls Doncaster has just finished the redecoration works at Doncaster Dome Leisure Centre in both the Lagoon swimming pool and Oasis Spa areas.  The Lagoon area has been painted in Aztec colours to give a jungle feel.  Once finished, professional Graffiti artists were employed to add special effects to the painted surfaces in the form of Lions, Elephants and Monkeys.

Millennium Stadium

Leading paint manufacturer Johnstone’s has been specified for use in the redecoration of one of the world’s most famous sporting venues - Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium. Working alongside Bagnalls, the national painting contractor with a local base in Cardiff, they are working on the major refurbishment programme.  The stadium has been selected to host at least eight football matches during the London 2012 Olympics.

The extensive contract includes the redecoration of the stadium’s internal walls and floors. Microbarr, Johnstone’s innovative new anti-bacterial coating has been selected for use in the stadium’s twelve medical centres and various other products from the Johnstone’s Performance Coatings range have been specified. 

Painting and Kicking Star for Bagnalls Cardiff

Paul Fowler, foreman painter at Bagnalls Cardiff, not only excels in the field of painting but is also a dab hand (or should we say foot) with a football.  Paul is part of the national Wales U23 squad and played against Finland last week - although they unfortunately lost 1-0.  He has also been named Player of the Year at his home club Carmarthen Town.  Bagnalls Cardiff is supporting his training and development by sponsoring Paul through the Games programme.

Apprentice Award

Nathan Broxholme of Bagnalls Doncaster recently collected an award for Best Performing 2nd Year Apprentice from Doncaster College.  He received his award at an Awards dinner held at the Castle Park, the home of Doncaster Rugby union, on Friday 7th November.  Nathan is pictured here with Richard Britten, Branch Manager Doncaster.

Apprentice Award

Carl Slocombe has  been awarded the Painting & Decorating Apprentice of the Year Award by Bristol City College.  Carl has just begun his third year at Brunel Gordano Training Centre which is affiliated to City of Bristol College.

Carl was given the award due to his attention to detail in achieving the high standard of course work he has consistently produced over the past twelve months and his desire to learn all aspects of our trade.  Carl attended the Skillbuild at entry level in the summer and although he was not successful on that occasion is eager to give it another bash next summer.

Bagnalls in Bristol were also awarded the Apprentice Employer in Painting & Decorating Award due to the continual support and guidance given to our apprentices over many years in conjunction with Bristol City College.

An achievement that all staff and tradesman in Bristol are very proud of.

Bagnalls Top the League at Wolverhampton Wanderers FC

This summer Bagnalls undertook the re-painting of the Billy Wright stand, including the underside steel strips and handrails (pitch side), painting of the roof steelwork at a height of over 100ft, painting of rear stand cantilever steelwork from the roadside, painting of soffits to the roadside elevation and painting of the corrugated cladding around the club shop.

The Ground is located very near to the centre of Wolverhampton and on a main road so it was in view of the public and passers by the whole time.  And although works were undertaken outside of the football season the facilities were still open for functions and weddings.

Various paints were used for various aspects of the stand including Crown Paints for the yellow undercoat and gloss to match the Jack Harris stand we painted in 2007, Johnstone’s Steelclad was used for the pitch-side works and the corrugated sheeting on the club shop and Leigh’s paints were used for the intumescent coating on the soffits.

Bagnalls supports Bradford Schools’ Building Schools for the Future (BSF)

Programme at Tong School

Bagnalls was awarded the contract to paint and decorate this new build school, through competitive tender, by main contractor Educo.  The overall works included coating of steelwork and general painting and decorating to ceilings, walls, bulkheads, skirting, floors, handrails, doors, frames and screens. We also undertook some dry lining, where required.

The Tong school was one of the early phases of the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme and was aimed at encouraging school children and the local communities to be more involved in their own community and its facilities.  Its design is based on a new concept of college type buildings with large open spaces to encourage learning and development of children.

A varying selection of scissor lifts and cherry pickers were used for the large open atrium area, they had to have a reach of circa 11metres and be lightweight and small.  Crown paints were used throughout the school and good support was given by Crown when required with specification support and inspection of completed areas.

Bank on Bagnalls

Bagnalls were commissioned to undertake the painting of the Atrium area, walls and ceiling, for Bradford and Bingley Building Society’s Head Office in Bingley.  The Head Office of a major bank is a very busy and public environment and the atrium, normally used as a café area, remained open to the building society’s staff during normal working hours. 

The ceiling and certain wall areas were particularly difficult to access and so an 18 metre spider access platform was used.   The access unit itself is quite spectacular when raised but the most impressive aspect was the teamwork required by Bagnalls and the access company in manoeuvring the Spider through a standard double door with a width of no more than 2 metres.  There was also an unusually high amount of masking and preparation required to ensure normal working could be carried out by the Building Society whilst the works took place during office hours and all areas were painted with a range of products from Crown trade paints.

Applying the Right Treatment at King’s Mill Hospital, Mansfield

Bagnalls was chosen as a Dulux Contract Partner by main contractor, Skanska, to undertake the painting & decorating works to this major new build PFI Hospital.  A team of Bagnalls directly employed decorators, led by a dedicated site Foreman, undertook the painting of phase 1, of this new hospital which is being constructed in several phases of new build and refurbishment of the existing King’s Mill Hospital, Mansfield.

The new build areas were not open to the public but Bagnalls did have the major added complication of working around other trades.  Trying to coordinate works around builders, plasterers, joiners and electricians made access and coordination especially difficult.  Towards the end of the job we had to deliver a massive influx of painting labour in order to meet the scheduled deadlines. 

Bagnalls were closely supported throughout the contract by Dulux who had to ensure delivery of all the various colours used on the project were made available on time and in the quantities required.

Bagnalls delivers painting works for Lancashire Schools Building Schools for the Future Programme at Shuttleworth College

Bagnalls, a Dulux Trade Contract Partner, was appointed the Painting & Decorating contractor for this major new build school project.  Bagnalls has now worked on a number of Building Schools for the Future (BSF), which is a massive Government investment into the UK’s secondary school system.

As with all large projects Bagnalls dedicated a core team of personnel, all of whom had to have CSCS cards (Construction Skills Certification Scheme).  In addition to the dedicated team from Bagnalls North West branch we also called upon the resources of personnel from our Leeds branch when the project was at its peak.  With our network of branch offices and directly employed labour, Bagnalls can call upon the resources of other branch personnel when required, knowing that they have CSCS cards and the same high level of Health & Safety training. 

The main contractor, Bovis Lend Lease were more than happy with the efforts put in by our team, especially the concerted effort we put in during the final weekend to achieve the promised handover.

Educated Painting at The Open University

Bagnalls was instructed to refurbish 5 key buildings on the Open University (OU) campus.  We worked with consultants Summers Inman to meet the requirements of the Open University. We used STO Lotusan coatings, an innovative paint system and Dulux Trade woodcare products to undertake the painting of all the existing render and painting to the timber cladding.

The OU campus was fully functioning throughout the year so Bagnalls had to make sure safety measures were in place to accommodate the large number of academics, staff and visitors to the site, on a daily basis.  Bagnalls had to work to a very tight timescale – the initial programme was set at 14 weeks which we completed with 2 weeks to spare.  This allowed the extra works required to take place before the winter painting cut off date.

Bagnalls applies Protective Coatings Package to Southport Railway Station

Bagnalls recently completed the protective coating works to the roof structures at Southport Railway Station on behalf of main contractor, Kier.  The station is located on the North West coast so Bagnalls had both the conditions of a seaside location and working over the winter months to contend with. In addition, the railway station remained open to the public during the entire course of the works, Kier had to install a fully decked platform to ensure public safety.

Our trained foreman and team of directly employed painters, the majority of whom are PTS and ICATTS trained and certificated, undertook the work and met the strict programme.

Apprentice Initiative

Steven Davies, a first year apprentice at Bagnalls Doncaster, showed off his artistic talents at Plover Primary School in Intake.  Our customer, Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council asked us if we could paint an Alpine scene as a backdrop to a newly installed climbing wall.  Without hesitation, Steven volunteered for the role even though he has only been with the company a few months.  Well done Steven.

49 Years Painting the Town Red!!

Michael Kingston, is a long term employee of Bagnalls Wolverhampton.  Michael joined Bagnalls as an apprentice painter back in August 1959, 24 years after the Wolverhampton branch was established in 1935.

Over the years, Michael has worked on many of the area’s landmark companies including Birmingham NEC, Aston University, Avalon Jaguar, Warwick University and Cadburys in Birmingham. 

Branch Manager, Jamie Buchan says "Mick has been an outstanding employee to Bagnalls for 49 years and is the nicest person you could wish to meet, he will be greatly missed."

Film, Camera, Action!!

Garry Coble, Director of Leeds took on another directing role during a film shoot with Crown Paints in August.  As a specialist painting contractor Bagnalls has trained personnel who can apply Crown’s flame retardant paints, Timonox.  Bagnalls and Crown are working together to target customers where the application of a flame retardant system would benefit occupants of premises by providing more time to exit a building in case of a fire. The jointly produced DVD will soon be available for use by Bagnalls personnel nationally – customers that could benefit from the Timonox system include universities, hospitals, schools, stadiums and high rise blocks of flats.

Bagnalls United wins Trophy

Bagnalls investment in the training and development of Management Trainees has paid off.  Firstly, Lee Jones, Build Team Contracts Manager won the Shepherd Trophy for best performance by a HNC student in the Measurement module.  Lee who joined Bagnalls as a management trainee successfully passed his HNC Building Studies with a number of merits and distinctions.

In addition, Gail Butt, trainee surveyor at Bagnalls London has just finished all 6 modules of her first year in HNC Construction with 4 distinctions and 2 merits!

PPG Undertake Environmental Trials at Bagnalls Painting Academy

PPG Architectural Coatings or Johnstone’s Paints to you and me, asked Bagnalls for support in undertaking some product trials of their new reduced VOC level gloss paints.  Bagnalls painters worked alongside PPG personnel to assess the paint options on trial.  Feedback given on the day by our painters was deemed very useful “Bagnalls personnel were very open and honest during the whole process.  Their feedback is invaluable to us in being able to meet the quality standards and reduced VOC level requirements for paints for 2010.“ said Paul Farrell, Application Product Manager, PPG.

Liquid Plastics AHC scheme

Bagnalls is one of only four national painting contractors to be approved by Liquid Plastics.  Liquid Plastics is a leading manufacturer of technologically advanced products for hygiene sensitive environments and has audited and approved Bagnalls nationwide to be one of their Approved Hygiene Contractors.

Decorating Champion

Bagnalls Doncaster Apprentice,  Nathan Broxholme, won the senior competition at the regional Skillbuild heat at Huddersfield College in June.

Nathan, who now goes into the national finals in October this year, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I won the regional heat and now I can’t wait for the national final – I just better get some practice in.”

Nathan’s Lecturer, Neil Preskey from Doncaster College said that Nathan had coped admirably with the pressure of this competition.

“Nathan, who won the senior competition, will now represent Doncaster College and his employer, Alfred Bagnall & Sons (East Midlands) Ltd, in the national finals later this year when we hope he will emulate his success in the regional heats.”

Photo:  Nathan Broxholme, 19, in the painting and decorating studio at The Hub, Doncaster College.

Commended Prize at Painting & Decorating Awards Ceremony

Bagnalls Newcastle branch was commended for a painting and decorating project at Ormesby Hall for the National Trust at the recent Painting & Decorating Association Annual  Awards ceremony in London.

The project involved the redecoration of Ormesby Hall, an attractive rural mansion just outside Middlesbrough.  This project followed on from the success of painting The National Trust’s Souter Lighthouse in 2006.

In the past, the painting of Ormesby Hall had been split into two phases.  However, Bagnalls were commissioned to undertake the entire project in one go in order to achieve a uniform finish in the Hall and out buildings.   The planned programme for the contract was six weeks. The completion was achieved in the given time period despite a number of difficult circumstances.

The museum remained open to the public during the conservation works, including quite a number of visits from young school children therefore health and safety was paramount on site, at all times.

In addition, decoration works for the National Trust are more demanding and bespoke than standard decorating contracts, as a clear understanding is required of the necessary conservation techniques.

Conservation Gifts

Receiving their T-shirts for their Ecuador Conservation Trip from Angela Nock of Bagnalls Cardiff Office, are the pupils and staff at Bryn Hafren Comprehensive School in Barry.

The T-shirts have been sponsored by Bagnalls in Cardiff who have established strong community links with the group.

Angela Nock of Bagnalls said: "The company is happy to support such a worthwhile venture and wish the girls well on their exciting journey."

Safety is Key at Shell

"I would like to take the opportunity to highlight an outstanding level of commitment and behavioural attitude towards safety and safe working practices that has been demonstrated by Steve Hickey at Shell Lubricants Centre throughout 2007 . His contribution and proactive approach towards improving the safety awareness and practices has set a shining example to the rest of the project and operations group. I would like to recommend Steve to be formally recognised within the Bagnalls group."

Norman Gray , Project Co-coordinator, Shell U.K. Oil Products Limited

Branching Out in the East Midlands

Bagnalls has recently opened a new branch in Leicester, just off the M1 and in easy reach of Nottingham, Derby, Peterborough and  Northampton.  This new branch will strengthen our local presence in this area where we already have a number of established industrial, commercial and public sector customers.  We are looking to establish our number of directly employed painters by winning more local contracts and developing long term partnerships.

Photography by Simon Vine

Another Successful Painting Project for the National Trust

Bagnalls was awarded the project to re-paint this attractive rural mansion on the edge of Middlesbrough, following on from the success of painting The National Trust’s Souter Lighthouse in 2006.

Ormesby Hall is a mid 18th Century mansion lived in by the Pennyman family for over 370 years, with a 17th century wing and is one of the North East’s most popular tourist attractions. The hall is host to various attractions such as civil weddings and receptions and open-air concerts.  Therefore the painting project had to be undertaken with a great deal of care for visitors and guests.

Due to the complex and exacting standards that were required for this project, the team of painters selected had to be trained and experienced in this type of work.  Our decision for personnel was made easy as the same team of painters were requested by the National Trust who undertook the excellent work at Souter Lighthouse, in 2006.

Home visit to Academy

We were happy to welcome residents and employees of the Home Group to the Painting Academy in September.  A day’s visit was arranged to demonstrate first hand Bagnalls commitment to Apprentice Training.  Four apprentices from Bagnalls York were being taught new skills, including Tom Norton, who was recruited as a direct result of our partnership with the Home Group.  The day was also supported by personnel from our supply chain partner, ICI Paints, who discussed the benefits of new products which could be adopted in the partnership to deliver continual improvement.

Putting on the Paint in Piccadilly

Bagnalls undertook the painting of all external elevations and masonry around Piccadilly 111 in the city centre of Manchester on behalf of Bruntwood Estates.  They wanted a specification that could withstand the carbon emissions from the city centre traffic. The chosen paint came from a specialist manufacturer in the Netherlands.

For work to be carried out on all 4 elevations of this 17 storey building, special access equipment had to be erected or hired. There was a fixed scaffold erected around 2 elevations of the building, a slung scaffold for access underneath a bridge to gain access to the bottom of the louvered vents and a cherry picker was hired for other areas of high-level access. The four mast climbers and cradles were the most used items of access equipment on this site, operated by painters specially trained in these types of access equipment.

Al this hard work and dedication to the project led to a very impressive finish.

Bagnalls Star in Bafta Winning Movie Premier

Bagnalls painted the Regent Cinema in Redcar in preparation for the Regional Premier of the Bafta winning film, Atonement.

The red carpet Premier was on Wednesday 5th September and was only for the extras who took part in the filming of the war scene on Redcar beach. The film was on general release to the public on Friday 7th September.

Manager of the Cinema, Neil Bates, is delighted with the finished and the new look, as are the residents of Redcar.

Bagnalls Announce Scottish Acquisition

Bagnalls has today strengthened its position as the UK’s leading painting, decorating and specialist coatings contractor, with the acquisition of James Hodgins & Sons Ltd in Glasgow. 

Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director commented: “This is a very exciting time for us as we continue to grow and develop the business. We are absolutely delighted to have reached an agreement with James Hodgins & Sons Ltd, as there is an excellent synergy between our two companies, because both are successful, long established and family owned companies with a clear commitment to investing in and developing their employees. We look forward to welcoming all the James Hodgins & Sons employees into the Bagnalls family, and we are very much looking forward to working with them.”

The acquisition is part of an ongoing investment programme by Bagnalls to develop and expand the business, which included the opening of a new branch in Leicester in September.

PDA Paperhanger of the Year Award 2007

Two apprentices from Bagnalls Bristol, Mark Walton (Right) and Jason Defrietas (Left), came second and third respectively in the 2007 PDA Paperhanger of the Year award.   The announcement was made on Saturday 20th September at the PDA's Annual General Meeting in Brighton. Thanks to the staff at Bristol, especially Roy Curry, who have given them the opportunity to reach these high standards. Lets hope they can hit the top next year.

Bagnalls Apprentice Crowned Young Decorator of the Year

Christopher Jenkins from Bagnalls Bristol is the new ‘Crown Trade Young Decorator of the Year’ after putting in a superb performance at a demanding three-day painting and decorating contest held at South Birmingham College last week.

The competition is part of ‘Skillbuild’, an annual CITB-backed skills extravaganza for the construction industry, which encourages the tradesmen and women of the future to excel at their craft and to showcase their talents.   

21-year-old Christopher earned his place in the national final of the Crown Trade Young Decorator competition after winning one of fifteen regional events held in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland over the spring and summer months. Chris walked away with a handsome trophy, the ‘Crown Trade Young Decorator of 2007’ title, and a cheque for £1000.

Leon Shines at Crown Young Decorator of the Year

Hot on Christopher’s heels was Leon Noble of Bagnalls York.  He was a close runner up in the final ranking with a place in the Top 5, a superb achievement because Leon was pipped at the post in the Yorkshire heat and earned his place in the final as one of the highest scoring runners up from all the regional contests.

Leon was winner of the PDA Apprentice of the year award in 2006 and has represented the UK painting industry in Europe.  Leon has been studying for his NVQs at York College and just has one last written test to do before he is fully qualified and out of his apprenticeship.

Place Your Bets – Bagnalls is a Winner!

Bagnalls has just finished the final touches to Doncaster Racecourse’s £32 million refurbishment.  Bagnalls won the contract to paint and decorate the new build areas of Doncaster racecourse last year.  Richard Britten, local Branch Manager says “New build projects are complex.  There are always so many other trades to work around and ensuring that all the paintwork was finished in time for the racecourse’s landmark opening of the St Leger was a challenge but our site management and teamwork meant we were ready on time.”

Bagnalls used its UK branch network of trained personnel to deliver teams of up to 30 directly employed painters to the site at peak painting times.  This is no mean feat in the middle of summer when painters are in high demand as John Stead, Site Manager explains “Bagnalls has over 550 directly employed operatives and this means we can deliver skilled teams of painters when they are needed most.  We won’t let the customer down and know we have the ability to form teams of skilled personnel all trained to Bagnalls health and safety standards when new build projects near completion, and demand for painting increases significantly.”

The racecourse initially opened its doors to punters on Friday 17th August in readiness for the September race meeting.  Additional works were then undertaken by Bagnalls before the classic St Leger race meeting in September.

Young Decorators Aim for ‘Master of Rolls’ Title

Two of our apprentices have put brush to paper to pitch for one of the industry’s top titles.

Jason Defreitas and Mark Walton have reached the finals of the 11th annual Apprentice Paperhanger of the Year contest, organised by The Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) and held at the Basford site of New College in Nottingham.

The youngsters now face an anxious wait to see who will be named the top young wallpaper hanger in the UK, when they make a trip to Brighton - to the PDA’s National Conference on 20th October - where the winner will be announced.

Mark and Jason are both 19, and work for Bagnalls in Bristol, The company enjoyed success in last year’s contest when another of their apprentices, Chris Jenkins, also of Bagnalls Bristol took the top title.

Purdy Supports Apprentices' Success

In recognition of Bagnalls' apprentices achieving the Construction Award for painting and decorating, Purdy, the world renowned brush manufacturer, is embarking on giving all successful PDA member candidates a set of trade brushes to set their careers as painters and decorators off to a good start.

David Sunderland, Bagnalls' Group Technical & Training Manager says "Purdy brushes have an excellent reputation in our industry and we are pleased that they are awarding the apprentices for their success.  They have also been very supportive of our training initiatives at the Bagnalls Painting Academy over recent years, which was purpose built for apprentices to develop their site based skills."

Pictured: Richard Britten Branch Manager of East Midlands with one of his 2nd year apprentices Craig Newson and David Sunderland Bagnalls' Group Technical & Training Manager.

New Honorary Life Member of the Painting & Decorating Association

John Bagnall, Chairman of Bagnalls was elected as an Honorary Life Member of the Painting and Decorating Association on 28th March together with Alick Whittle and Walter Smith.  They were presented with their certificates at a luncheon in London on 27th June by Andrew Stokes, Immediate Past President.  John Bagnall is a former President of the Painting & Decorating Federation.

Bagnalls Supporting the Drive for Building Schools for Future

Bagnalls was commissioned to paint three new schools in the Leeds area by Carillion Construction in 2006.

Tight timescales and demanding quality standards were required to ensure that the schools were open for teachers and pupils to start a new academic year in September 2006.  As with many new build projects the timeframe for completion of the decorations was continually being compressed.

Bagnalls, with its strong presence in the Yorkshire region, was able to bring together teams of personnel from other branches to deliver the customer’s requirements on time.

Competition Success for Bagnalls' Apprentice

21 year old apprentice Chris Jenkins of Bagnalls Bristol put in a great performance at the South West heat of the Crown Trade Young Decorator of the Year Competition.

His attention to detail and professionalism impressed the judges so much that he came first in the regional event , winning a place in the national final of the competition, which takes place October.

Chris, who has been working at Bagnalls for 2 years, and who is currently studying for his NVQ Level 3 in painting and decorating is no stranger to success in skills competitions. Last year he won the 10th annual Apprentice Paperhanger competition, organised by the Painting & Decorating Association (PDA).

David Sunderland, Group Training and Technical Manager of Bagnalls is very proud of Chris’s  achievement:  “This competition really pushes our young decorators to new heights and gives them a chance to excel. They return to work armed with improved skills and techniques and with lots of new-found confidence which is fantastic for them and very beneficial for us.”

Kidderminster Town Hall

Bagnalls in Wolverhampton recently completed the repainting of Kidderminster Town Hall for Wyre Forest District Council.

The Town Hall is a formidable building.  The two main rooms date back to 1855, the Music Room, with its Victorian décor, is enhanced by the Baroque style casing of its William Hill Organ and the Corn Exchange which is now used for bazaars, dances and many public activities.

Bagnalls carried out redecoration works to the external of the building before commencing on the internal highly decorative work which was the final task to be done once all the other refurbishment trades had left site.   The work was extremely complex and required great skill from our workforce and earned us a nomination for the refurbishment category in the Johnstone’s Painter 2006, Painter of the Year Awards.

Durham Bandstand

Bagnalls North East recently repainted Durham’s Bandstand which is sited on the banks of the River Wear, on what is known as “the racecourse” (as it once was one 1733-1887), but is now the University Playing fields.

The Bandstand was revamped for Durham’s Annual Regatta on 9th/10th June, founded in 1934 the Regatta is the second oldest in the country.  The 174th Regatta also coincided with the 175th Anniversary celebrations of Durham University. 

In July, the Playing fields also host part of the annual Miner’s Gala where the bandstand will be a prominent feature.

Chester & District Residents Over the Moon

Residents of Newton House and Tiverton Close, part of Chester & District Housing Trust (CDHT), are over the moon with the professional standard of the painting works currently being undertaken. 

Linda Ramsey, Manager said “They are very professional in their work as a team, making sure of cleaning up after themselves, cooperating with all the security and safety issues, interacting with tenants as well as being friendly and helpful towards tenants, staff and visitors.  There’s been no disruption to the day to day running of the scheme, they have all been brilliant – a team to be proud of.”

The Re-Painting of Souter Lighthouse Wins Prestigious Award

The National Trust and Bagnalls are celebrating after winning a prestigious award for the external painting of Souter Lighthouse.

Bagnalls scooped the industrial category of the Painting and Decorating Association Premier Annual Trophy Awards 2007.

Nick Dolan, Property Manager of Souter Lighthouse, supported Bagnalls' entry into the competition and is delighted by their success.  He said:

“There is no doubt that Bagnalls are worthy of this award and the recognition it brings.  Paul Smith, Project Foreman, and his team would certainly be welcome on any future work Bagnalls carries out for the Trust”

Northumberland Estates

Bagnalls has worked for Northumberland Estates for some years now.  We undertake the external painting of all the tenants’ houses on the estates. 

The clerk of works, based at Alnwick Castle, home of one of the world’s largest tree houses, wrote in his testimonial letter “many of our agricultural and residential tenants have asked that we pass on their thanks for the professional and friendly manner of the painters.”  Bagnalls has successfully carried out the external decoration works to properties within Northumberland Estates for the last 4 years. With properties off the beaten track, up hill and down dale, through fields, climbing over fences and fighting off the livestock for access, nothing is too much trouble.

Bagnalls Lights up the North East

Bagnalls recently completed the painting of Souter Lighthouse which stands 23-meters high and was the first lighthouse in the world to be powered by electricity.  Since 1999, the National Trust has taken over the care and ownership of this magnificent landmark and the associated keeper’s cottages, which are let out as holiday homes in the summer months.

The work consisted of the proprietary painting of the external of the lighthouse and surrounding buildings - but it was no ordinary job.  Bagnalls had to contend with harsh weather conditions due to its seaside location and the airborne debris created by a working quarry only 400 metres away.

Bagnalls were the main contractor on site and assigned a local scaffold company to work hand in hand with the painters to ensure the site ran safely and efficiently. The lighthouse had to be fully scaffolded to ensure the safety of both the Bagnalls operatives and the general public, because the lighthouse remained open throughout the refurbishment works.

Photograph by kind permission of Souter Lighthouse and The National Trust

Bagnalls Apprentice represents the UK in Europe

Leon Noble, an apprentice at Bagnalls York and the winner of this year’s PDA Apprentice of the Year competition, represented the UK in the EuroPainting Skills contest, held at Olomouc in the Czech Republic. The event was held in conjunction with the Union Internationale Des Entrepreneurs de Peinture (UNIEP) – the association representing the painting industry in Europe.

Contestants from all across Europe were given a series of challenges to complete including wallpapering, the preparation and painting of doors, and the replication of a given design. Although Leon did not achieve a place in the top three, he worked well and demonstrated his abilities in every task.

David Sunderland, Group Training and Technical Manager at Bagnalls, said: “This was a great opportunity for Leon, as the PDA’s current Apprentice of the Year, to test his skills on the European stage. He also gained an insight into the different techniques used across Europe.”