A DEDICATED groundsman has been recognised for his three decades of service at a Herefordshire business.
Les Preedy, a groundsman at Poston Mill Touring and Holiday Home Park in Herefordshire's Golden Valley, has been awarded the long service award this week after working at the park for over 31 years.
Mr Preedy, who is now 76, started working as a groundsman for Poston Mill on July 4, 1992. His role covers a wide variety of work, from siting mobile homes to covering all kinds of ground care work.
The park's immaculate grounds are a testament to his dedication to creating a welcoming haven for guests and holiday homeowners.
Mr Preedy said he had applied for the job after spotting it in the local paper and deciding that, at 45, he wanted a career change.
"I like the job because I meet some lovely guests out in the fresh air, and making sure that everything is maintained to a very high standard," he said.
"I always give 100 percent to what I do."
Mr Preedy had started his professional life as an apprentice, becoming a qualified coachbuilder, as well as a commercial paint sprayer, before deciding a change was needed.
"I have always enjoyed gardening so that’s why I applied for a Poston Mill job," he said.
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Edward Goddard, managing director of park owner Morris Leisure said he is "constantly impressed" by Mr Preedy's dedication.
"The park’s grounds are a representation of his hard work," he said.
"Since purchasing the park in October 2022, he has been a testament to the team here at Poston Mill.”
Poston Mill was previously owned by Wayne and Sarah Jones who would also like to thank Mr Preedy for his hard work over the years.
Mr Jones said Mr Preedy's passion for the park has been "instrumental" in its success.
"His meticulous care has transformed the park's landscaping, adding a whole new level of beauty and charm to make Poston Mill what is it today," he said.
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