Half a century of building success

After more than half a century in the building trade, Rodney Kenneth Wilson is passing on the mantle for the construction firm he built single-handedly.

The 74-year-old set up RK Wilson Builders after being asked to build a house as a 21-year-old.

He’s not looked back since, building hundreds of homes in the local area.

Now Rodney is handing over the reins to son Dean and Robert Spenceley.

“I left school aged 15 and became a carpenter,” he said. “I used to do work for other builders and then someone asked me to build a house.

“I started that and ended up doing most of the jobs. That’s where I started and I just did more and more from there.”

Rodney says he doesn’t know how many homes he’s built in the last 54 years.

He was presented with a cake at a small ceremony last week.

Rodney said. “It has always been my intention to pass the business to Dean and over the years he has taken on more responsibility.

“I’ve worked hard, it’s what I’ve done all my life and I’ve always enjoyed it.

“I’ve got to know so many people in the trade, many of whom have become good friends.

“I will particularly miss being on the building site with the men and the laughs and jokes you have with them.

“You can’t be running around too much at the age of 74 though.

“I’m looking forward to spending time with my wife and playing golf.

“Obviously we can’t do too much holidaying at the moment but I’m looking forward to more of those when we can.”