ENGINEER TO THE STARS HANGS UP HIS TOOLBELT
Gordon crafted items for likes of Michael Jackson and Cher!
A ENGINEER who fashioned items for celebrities from his unit in the centre of a North Staffordshire town has retired.
Gordon Richards, who owned Richards Engineering and Ironworks, has worked from his unit in Russell Street, Leek for the past 33 years.
He has completed work for many of the churches in the town as well as people and businesses all across the Staffordshire Moorlands.
Gordon said: “I have done a lot of work for the antique trade and much has gone all over the world including America and Japan.
“I have also done work for lots of celebrities including Cher, Cindy Crawford, tennis player John Mcenroe, Michael Jackson and also for Barbara Bush, the wife of former president George Bush, who had a table made.
“I think I must have also made something for every church in Leek.
“I have received lots of support from people in the town and also all across the Staffordshire Moorlands.”
The 64-year-old, who lives in Endon, has now sold the property.
He started work as an apprentice millwright at Thomas Boltons in Froghall before going on to start his own business.
Gordon said: “I served my apprenticeship at Boltons.
“After working there for a few years I set up my own business.
“It has been hard work, but at the same time enjoyable, however there is a lot of paperwork. It has also been cold in winter and I have worked in minus three degrees.
“Being near the centre of town many people have called in to see me.
“I now looking forward to taking a rest, but I will miss the people calling in to see me for a chat.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their support over the last 33 years.”