September 24, 2020

Dave Madgwick retires after 46 years

We send our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Dave Madgwick, who has retired after 46 years at Vastern Timber. We’ll miss his photographic memory for trees and timber, and his exceptional knowledge of wood and woodlands.

Dave Madgwick joined Vastern Timber in 1974, just one year after the firm had purchased the Wootton Bassett sawmill and timber yard. Initially employed as the mill manager, he later became our timber buyer, and then purchasing director. We believe he may have purchased logs from (almost) every woodland in England. 

He was well known for his expert eye and uncanny ability to recall exactly where the best timber was located. His knowledge of the timber trade is second-to-none, and we will miss his expertise and advice. 

When we asked what he might like as a retirement gift, we were surprised that he chose a computer. Mr Barnes senior noted the irony that Dave “is going to computerise for the first time in his life”  as he retires, something he steadfastly avoided throughout his working years. 

We wish Dave a long and happy retirement.