One of the longest serving employees at Hill’s Panel Products (HPP), Trevor Ross has said goodbye to the business, retiring after 30 years.

Transport manager joined the Oldham-based manufacturer and supplier of board, doors and fittings for the fitted furniture industry, as an HGV driver just five years after the firm’s inception.

“I’ve had a fabulous 30 years at Hill’s,” said Trevor, who marked his retirement with a holiday to Italy with his wife Debbie.

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“I’ve seen the firm grow, and grow, and grow. Fair play to them – 10 out of 10 for what they’ve done and it’s great to have been part of it,” he added.

“Stephen and Martin (Hill, the firm’s founders and owners) have brought in the right people who know what they’re doing.

“Keith Wardrope (MD) made a massive impact on the business as far as I’m concerned and now there’s younger directors coming through like Gareth (Evans, Deputy MD), Andy (Evans, IT) and Dan (Mounsey, Marketing and Business Development) who are progressing the company now.”

A former professional footballer, Ross enjoyed a career with Arsenal, Everton, Portsmouth, Sheffield United and Bury, where he called time on his full-time career due to injury.

He played with England under-15s on eight occasions and under-21 international football for Scotland, and also had a stint with AEK Athens in the Greek first division.

In fact, it was a football connection that led to his new life behind the wheel.

Trevor Ross explained: “After I finished playing, my sponsor at Bury, Tony Noonan, called me up and asked me what I was doing on Saturday morning.

“I said I had no plans, so he said get yourself down to Manchester Training Centre, you’re going for your class one licence and then you’re coming working for me!”

Keith Wardrope, HPP MD, said: “From the pitch to the yard, Trevor has always been a team player.\

“Many will know him from his days as a professional footballer, but to us at Hill’s Panel Products, he’s been a captain behind the scenes – dependable, passionate, and full of heart.

“His  loyalty, hard work, and unwavering commitment have helped shape who we are today, and his presence will be deeply missed by us all.  

“Trev, your dedication has left a lasting legacy. On behalf of everyone at HPP, thank you for everything.

“We wish you the very best in your retirement, and remember, legends never truly leave. You’ll always be part of the HPP family!”