Westwood Works 1903-2003

Guestbook

Below are entries from the first site Guestbook. Unfortunately the providers disappeared and we were lucky not to lose all the visitor comments.

Barry Rands, UK
I retired in 1989 and it has been quite a pleasure for Audrey (my wife) and I to look over the site and to recall names and pictures of friends and colleagues.Does anyone have any pictures of the L70 shop? I'll look up some pictures of when I joined in 1941 and when I retired in 1989.

Roger Ian Creed, Pinetown, South Africa
Many fond memories and recognition of names here. I did my pre-apprenticeship & apprenticeship at BP from 1959 to 1965 and left in 1968. My father Bert Creed worked in the machine shop for 50 years. Enjoyed the pictures of the Fire Brigade, of which I was a member, and hope the Rugby Club will make an appearance soon.

Steve Hudson, England
Still trawling through the site, have been contacted by several people. Does anyone know of or in touch with ROBERT HILL son of Les Hill production engineering, Robert left in his early 20's to become a Vicar.

Richard Francis, England
In reply to Dave Symonds letter dated 16 Feb. I see Sister (Doreen) Gynn at the Fitness First Gym which is situated opposite the Old Westwood site. She was very well the last time I saw her. What a superb website. I have spent hours looking through the old photos and they bring back many fond memories of my 25 years working at Westwood

Trevor Williamson, UK
(Sorry this is my correct e-mail address ignore previous.) It's good to see a lot of the old intake of 1974 appearing. Bill Brewer, was our instructor in fitting, and company supplier of "Christmas Turkeys. He could get you anything for a fag. Ferret alias (Mark Ramsden), Colin Holland and myself helped him to become a good instructor. (Titter!!)

Nigel Roberts, UK
Have worked in purchasing from 1977 to the present day. It's great to see so many old names and faces, brings back a lot of good memories.Well done Mr & Mrs Preston and James for your hard work in producing this site.

Pat Brown, England
I have only just found the site. My Dad Frank Brown (Fitting Shop-Biscuit)would love it. I have such great memories of the childrens Christmas parties and the many open days. Also, I remember the wonderful holidays arranged for the retired members by Len Yarrow, Mr Strickson, Mr Pullman and others which Mum and Dad loved (me as well as they even found room for me). Made such friends as Mr & Mrs Pacey, Tommy & Drusilla Woods, Ivy and Jack, so many more. I will search for photos.

Ivan Coussell, Isle of Ely, England
I was a visitor to Westwood Works. I worked for Pye Telecommunications Ltd. and came round in the late 1950s/early 1960s to service the radio telephones on the Forklift trucks! i remember being shown a biscuit roll, a massive brass roller, which had suffered from 'foreign material' in the hopper - resulting in 10% extra per biscuit!

Dennis Taylor, Devon next to the railway line
Can anybody remember when the main line was straightened and we were told (by Henry Hall no doubt) that the Flying Scotsman, by this time only the name of the train, would pass through Peterborough Station at 100 mph. I think most of the works was out on the lineside for that memorable occasion. Only it was held up outside the station and went through at about 20 mph. I saw it the next day full speed. I think I saw Henry Hall on the works roof as well.

Henry Kafeman, Milton Keynes, Bucks, UK
Glancing at the site brings many happy memories flooding back. I started as a Student Apprentice in 1978 from school, then went to Queens' College Cambridge for 3 years to read Engineering. Initially I was interested in Mechanical Engineering, but then changed to Control & Software Engineering. I worked in Print and my claims to fame are some of the BPACS PCBs and the Control Systems for the C1, G44 & HS Folders. Also the HDK Arm Exerciser.

Eventually I was transferred to Rockwell Automation in Milton Keynes and am still here and working in the Printing Industry (just) on Newspaper rather than Commercial Printing Presses. My service is considered continuous so I celebrated 25 years last September! Applying for a Sponsorship at Baker Perkins at 17 was the best move I ever made. The good old days are sorely missed. Keep up the good work on the Site - I will be emailing you lots of pictures, etc. Greetings to everyone associated with Westwood Works and in particular those that remember me.

Wenda Woods, UK
I began in the typing pool when i was 17, progressed to purchasing, and then to sub-contracts, i left in 1992 i find it sad to pass the place it once stood, the people became like second family to me and helped me through some tough times, i still find it hard to believe it has gone forever.

Dave Symonds, England
What about photos of the Medical Dept (suppose they'd call it Occupational Health now). Anyone remember Sister Gynn? She very kindly put my head back together one afternoon after I had cracked it open on a piece of pipe that popped out of a vice.

Dennis Taylor, Devon
I have had another look at the site I think its great will try to find some stuff soon. I have a BP Badge Didnt know the story behind it until today. I didnt know Tony Scarr was the only Bowls player I thought he was more into Football hooliganism. Picture gallery brilliant.

Dick Preston, England
Please take time to click on to the new "News" icon at the top of the page. This section will be used to bring you news about events associated with Baker Perkins' Centenary Year. At this time your help is needed with a project associated with the landscaping around the new prison. We look forward to hearing from you.

Steve Hudson, UK
What a wonderful idea Keeping up the memories of the old firm. I joined in 1966 as a fitter for one year and then to production engineering until July 1992, after 17 months practice retirement I joined Newage International, in Stamford, with many other BP faces until December 2003 when I fully retired. Would like to contact any members of the P.E.D if they are still around.

Paul Barker, England
Comments:have an interest in rose forgrove packaging machies.used to work at the seacroft site,and am looking for old photos.if anyone can help,i would be very gratefull.

John Rouse Geordieland,England
I have received an e-mail from Derek Steels in the USA. His dad was Freddy Steels & they lived on Hankey St./Westwood Street corner. He has seen & Enjoyed looking through the website (as do we all!). He asks if anyone knows the whereabouts of Brian Hodges (Bert's son). The last I knew of him he was with the Health Authotity as an Ambulance driver. Can anyone help? Thanks John

Colin "Clogs" Holland England
I started in 1974 with ferret ramsdon, trev williamson, and butts crowson ,what a shower we were, but what a great place to work and we all turned into great engineers. the baker perkins name is still held to high esteem where ever Ive worked .great web site keep it up

Andy Parr England
Joined as an apprentice in 1976,trained as a fitter under Bob Bull until 1980 in Bakery Fitting shop ,then spent another 4 years working on Bakery FED (any one remember John Murray in London ?). Still involved in Engineering. I always say that the mates I made both at Westwood and in the field set me up for life.Good times. What a good website

Andy Hunt UK, Peterborough
I started at BP as a craft apprentice in 1976, leaving c1991, after working as a turner in various depts. The apprentice in the picture captioned "Turning instruction 1977" is me. The instructor is Peter Woods. An excellent site and great to have a trip down memory lane.

Jane Hunt Nee North UK, Peterborough
My Dad, Jack North, worked for many years at Baker Perkins. When he left c1978 he was Export Sales Manager. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers him.

Oscar Chuter uk
hi charlie,
i worked with you at crumpsalls manchester in
1975, there was quite a few of us there, we were
repairing the cone drives on a biscuit plant.
regards
oscar

Martin Walpole England
Excellent site. I ride by the old works most days and my mind goes back to the great times I had during the 1970s / 80s. Would love to meet the old faces again but alas... maint electricians Les Clark, Les Foreman, Jack, Stan Howes, Ken, Freddy Ashwell, Gibby, Tom, Wilf, Hank (he's probably still there on overtime, has anyone checked) Reg, Dennis and Bernard.

Nigel Hilton UK
Well done for a good layout on this historic company. There will never be another !, where are the old printing electrical lads ?

Terry Gren USA
I wish to thank all the people from Baker. I have the best of memories and the best of times.

Bill Forrest england
just found out about this site nice to see some old names are still around
i was in the fitting shop as a slinger for nearly two years plus 1961 made lots of friends i hope and now work with bill clarke hope you all remember him.
ps ARTHERRRRRRR (do you remember Arther Thompson)

Brian Pflanz USA
I was just informed of your sight by an old Baker Perkins field service man. I am thrilled that someone has taken the time to keep the Baker name alive. I am one of a few people left from the Baker Perkins Printing Machinery (U.S. facility) starting in Barrington, Illinois and later in Schaumburg, Illinois. I started in 1984 and have been in the Parts department ever since. The few left have survived APV Baker, Rockwell, and the many incarnations of GOSS. We are still going strong and the Baker name is alive and well in the U.S. with a lot of equipment still running.

Great site!!

Regards,
Brian Pflanz

John Rouse 'geordieland'
I have been on the 'site' quite a few times, what great memories. Is there anyone who remembers the Ambulance Section & the Annual Competitions? I took part in a few 'interdepartmentals' & won the Championship in 1956(?) with Terry Bean, Mick Rate & the late Tom Todd. If there are any memories out there please record them on the site. Pictures would be great!! John

Wayne Carrington Gary Hockley USA
Gary and i just met with Jeff Parks in Chicago and he told us about this site. Had a real trip back in time looking at the pics. We are over here still working on Baker presses. Love to hear from anyone who knows us from the fitting shop.................Wayne and Gary

Howard Baker uk Holmfirth W.Yorks
Congratulations James, the hard work's paying off. Each time I visit there is something new to look at ! Is there a chance you can blow up one of the factory schematics and enlarge the descriptions on the buildings, my memory isn't what it used to be and I could use a reminder of what was where.

I joined BP as a student apprentice in 1986 and was with BP/APV until 1998. A happy 12 years when, when on the Westfield Road site I worked in the DO and managed the Biscuit Rolls section. I am now Chief Engineer of two Nestle factories after a spell at Burtons Biscuits in Blackpool.

Arthur Thomson (Bloater) gb
I was in the first intake to new apprentice school in 1953/4.ended up as a fitter in Jack Larmans shop. Left BP in 1966 and served 14 yrs @ hotpoint as a design engr.Made redundant in 1980 and have sold Anglian Windows for 23 yrs. BP experience has stood me in good stead with my subsequent career changes. Still in P/boro!
I like this site---Happy memories

Charles Leiper uk aberdeen
started working for BP 1952 TILL MY RETIREMENT IN 1984. I WAS A SITE ENGINEER FOR THE BISCUIT DIVISION OUTDOOR DEPARTMENT. I WORKED WORLDWIDE FOR THE COMPANY AND HAVE MANY FOND MEMORIES OF MY TIME WITH BP.

Laurie Goddard Australia
Sad to learn of the demise of BP Westwood. I had very happy times there between 1944 and 1950 initialy in the main office building and later as an apprentice in the fitting shops. My training was first class with hands on experience from day one under the guidence of qualified tradesmen. I can remember many friends of that period, Johnnie Costin, Alan ("Claud")Ward, John Lynch to name a few. I also remember the help and support I received from Foreman Kirby and Chargehand Jack Rouse during my final years on the BCM assembly floor. From this small beginning I moved on to enjoy a succesful and most rewarding career in mechanical engineering both in the UK and Australia.

Jim Farrow England
Amongst my photo collection I came across a very old picture of the company fire brigade. This was given to me, several years ago now, by the widow of the late A.R.(Vic)Cavanagh. This was taken outside the main entrance to the 1914 building and must have been in the quite early days of the company in Peterbnorough. I cannot remember a glass canopy in front of the entrance. The picture is in Puzzle Corner. I can only recognize one of the fireman which is Percy Bartram (2nd from the left as you look at the picture)who,in my time at the company, worked in the C.P.O. Can anyone name the other members of this team? Kind Regards

Roy Laxon U.S.A
What a great co. I stumbled on BP in 1946 when I left grammar school. I spent 5 years getting the best training as an engineer finishing up in Choc & Conf. design. It served me well as I finished up in Canada as Sen.V.P.Operations for the largest co.making choc.icecream and dairy prods.
Today I am writing from sunny Florida where we spend the winters away from the cold winters of Canada. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me from 1946-1999 when I was at the company.

Mick Belson England
Hi to anyone who remebers me,I started in 1968 and am still here, 36 years this year. I served my time as an apprentice electrician and after 20 years moved into P.E.D., Then went to be a foreman in the fitting shop and now I am back in P.E.D

Shane Lancaster UK
An excellent site. I was only at Baker Perkins 9 years but it was the best experience any engineer could have! I, along with some other 'old boys', am still working in Preston on Newspaper presses for Goss (originally Rockwell Graphic Systems).We are still battling the Germans and surviving. Keep up the good work

David And Anne Boulton England
Congratulations on a magnificent site which brought back memories to Anne although she left in 1967! David is interested for reasons associated with Perkins Engines history and would like to cntact the persons responsible especailly for the documenting and photographs. Please contact me at the above address?

Stan Druitt England
Apprentice September 1942 - October 1943
R.E.M.E. October 1943 - September 1947
Apprentice October 1947 - ??? 1948
D.O. Chemical/Oven Section to September 1969
Teaching College (Corby) 69-72
Lincoln Rd/St Paul's School 72-81

Dick Preston UK
We have located photographs of the fire engines, thanks to Ivan Bateman and Google. We also expect to receive a photograph of the company aeroplane, again thanks to Google. The Internet is a wonderful thing!
We will be taking a break over Christmas but please keep logging on in the New Year - we are still receiving quantities of material and are planning new sections. These will include a "Puzzle Corner" where we ask for your help in identifying photographs and filling in gaps in our coverage.
Best Wishes from the www.westwoodworks.net team.

Sandy Rycroft (Nee Login) UK
How nice to look back on the photos and see the old faces. The Directors and Senior Managers were then seen as professional gentlemen and all had the respect of their staff, they in turn having respect for their employees - a bit different from nowadays.

Phil Harnett China
Not sure where to start. Thanks for the great memories, I have just spent 2 hours looking at the names and faces, and so many still missing. Worked all over the company from 1981 to 1997, Student, Group Marketing, Prod Eng, Prod Control, Personnel, Prod Mgr, Bedewell, and finally China. So many people to thank for the training I had, you know who you are! Now GM of an engineering comapany in China for part of the IMI group. I have some photos of the day we moved ot Paston, but they are in storage, will send them on in a couple of years time.

Nigel (Buts) Crowson Germany
I started in 1974 and served my apprenticship, then moved into the milling section in the main machine shop, and worked nightshift for a couple of years in the Heavy mills m/c shop. I left BP to go to work in Germany and worked in about 17 different factorys, aircraft industry, moter industry etc. None of witch came close to the work quality turned out at westwood works.
Also I returned to BP not once but twice in between contracts overseas.
It was an honour to take part in a wonderful team
and a bloody good laugh at times too.
Keep this site alive!!!!

David J Randall UK Peterborough
Great site. Memories came flooding back. Worked at Baker Perkins for 9 years, left in 1976 to work at the Regional College where we have lots of 16mm films about BP, in storage. Keep up the good work. My father Jack worked at the company for 46 years.

Trevor Williamson England
Great to see the old spirit living on. Had some of the Best and funniest days of my life as an apprentice at this fine establishment. I started in 1974 with an intake of 51 others. The last of the big apprentice runs. The Experimental Department is where I finished my time I've never met any other craftsmen like it since. Happy days. I wish you all good health. Cheers

Paul Holland England
Fantastic Web Site with many names and faces you will never forget.I started at Baker Perkins in 1971 and had what was possibly the best apprentice traning in the country. Remember Jack Hurst, Stan White & co. I'm still here after 32 years, I'm now fitting shop manager. James - remember the days in CCS Proposals. We had a great team in the CCS office

Gary Bennett UK
Just found the site.. great please keep developing it as my fondest work and social memories are with Baker Perkins. Apprentice in 1986 and moved on in 1998. A real family experience for me as my mum Sheila, dad Les and Brother Dave all worked there at some stage.

Phil Archer U.K.
I worked in the 1932 Building in Plant Eng. from 1987 to 1992. Still bumping into some of the guys in their new lives. I understand that H.M.P. are looking to put a tribute to Baker Perkins within the proposed gardens of the site.

Colin Bingham uk
Just found the site - great,well done. I started at BP in 1967 as an apprentice. Moved into the toolroom in 1970 with many good memories and old friends (remember these party animals) Brian Chick, Eddie Newton, Ray Pond, Gerry Woodhouse,Jim Fountain, my good mate Roger Tuttlebee, Jimmy Jackson,Alf Goddard, Jim Rippon,charlie symonds,Doug Harbour, Tubby Whybrow. Shame to see the old building come down but better down than left to rack and ruin

Colin Wootten England
Brilliant idea I worked for BP from 1953 to 1993 the faces in the gallery brought back many memories. Also sleepless nights going back into half forgotten memories. We should keep alive the memory of the place and people.

Tracy Smith England
Well done the 'Preston Clan' & all others who have made this website possible.
It was lovely to see photos of my late father, Alan (Alf) Smith with many of his friends I remember from my childhood. I recall visiting the social club at the weekends with dad,as he set up or dismantled equipment for the 'Terry Mann' band. However,one of my clearest memories is of dad recieving an injury during a game of rugby.I was absolutely terrified and have never enjoyed playing sports since!

Jim Farrow England
Reference the Picture Gallery.

The picture Gabrielle Abbott enquires about is Les Hill of the Machine Shop where he was Superintendant.

Shirley Gillard (Copland) USA
I worked at B.P from l951 until 1959.I worked in the Outdoor Dept Office. Then I worked in the Toolroom Office. Many happy memories from that time. The Sports Club was a big part of my life too. I enjoyed hockey and table tennis, also the dances at the club. I remember racing from the parking lot to clock in on time! mad dash that was generally. The fun we all had at Christmas time, especially the children's parties. We volunteers enjoyed it as much as the children. Thank you so much for instituting this web site. I shall continue to check in to see old friends. Job well done. :)

Jenny Mogford England
Keep up the good work... this looks like it's fast turning into a BP Reunited.

Sorry to say I never worked there (was at Perkins Engines across town) but I do visits other local websites with interest as Content Editor of www.peterborough.net

Linda Nightingale England
What a great site. I first heard about it on television and have passed the word. I started at BP in 1965 at the young age of 15 (Linda Forman) and stayed until 1977. Being so young a starter I considered it an extension of my family. I worked in the Field Engineering Department under the management of Gordon Richardson/Jim Cupit/Mervin Probert/Jim McLachlan to name but a few. It was a very sad day for me when the building was demolished. I could write a book about all the good times I had whilst working there. If there is anybody out there who would like to get in touch and chat about old times please EMail me.

Linda Tilney Nee Bembridge Peterborough, UK
What a great site....brings back so many memories!! I worked there from 1969-74. Started in the Typing Pool (remember girls?...ruled with a rod of iron by Gill Wortley), then Sub-Contracts (Bob Fuller (now deceased) was my boss), then I worked for Joan Usher in Travel. Seeing those photos of the Machine Shop reminds me how scary it was to walk through there! Also remember the great times we had at the office parties (say no more, but the old lifts always used to get stuck between floors!) and spending Christmas Eve lunchtime in the Halcyon and being scrutinised when we returned to work. Keep up the good work.....will visit again.It's true that it felt like a big family.Would be great to hear from anyone who remembers me.

Elaine Newton England
What an interesting site ... once you start looking you can't stop. I heard about it from Shirley Pain - Food Technologist with Biscuit Division in the early 80's. The 1984 Interpack photograph brought back many memories.

Mike Bowthorpe England
Memories ~ Biscuit Electrical, all the gang in Biscuit, all the plant we produced that went all over the world, field service ~ including Tucker!, The lads and lassies in commercial, product development meetings, visits to Bedewell to see the lads, the Bedewell translation hat, Brazil, Grand Rapids, all the gang in C&C, Experimental, The systems guys on the 6th floor, Industrial Design, Purchase, Malton's Boys, Beer on a Friday, getting stuck in the lift on the way to the 6th floor (intentionally!), 1070, then Bakery ~ memories, sweet memories.

John Swain UK
Fantastic idea hope the effort continues.
I almost entered the apprentice school, but defied my parents... don't we all at some stage !
However, my parents were Steward and Stewardess at the social club in Alma Rd for a number of years, anyone remember Doug and Edna Swain ?
Fond Memories.

Peter Macgregor United Kingdom
Congratulations on a wonderful site reminding the world of one of the great names of British Engineering.
I never worked for Baker Perkins - but I know the name from many years ago when working as a buyer. Long may this site continue - I shall revisit regularly to see what new items have been added.

Peter MacGregor

Gabrielle Abbott UK
In the Gallery there is a photo of Les Hill - which Les Hill is this? Apparently there was one in the Fitting Shop and also one in the Machine Shop.

Adrian Mcmanus españa
I heard about the site from les nightingale. I worked in 'bakery' from 1977 through to 1987.
I still smile when I think of some of the characters - keith the spares estimator, peter 'hoohah' spencer's 'lord byron' quiff,
jim maclachlan engulfed in a cloud of smoke holding simultaneous phone conversations, tom edwards's dagger fetish, arthur hitch's 'convoluted' telephone messages,les nightingale explaining the french origin of the noun 'tirfor' to a supposedly learned geoff midgley. happy memories indeed!! I now live & work (efl teacher) in north-west spain - a far cry from westfield road!!
all the best...

Ian Selinger UK (Milton Keynes)
I have only just discovered that this site exists. In fact I didn't even know that the buildings had gone, they were there last time I was in Peterborough.
For me the best bit is the 'rogues gallery'. It brings back all sorts of memories, almost all good!. (I dont remember looking that young though) I had a very happy 20+ years and learnt a lot from some very talented engineers. Being part of the Printing Division through the glory days when sales were rocketing and we won the Queens Award was brilliant just a shame that Rockwell came along and took it all apart.
Any way congratulations to the Prestons and all the others that have put a lot of hard work into this site. I probably shouldn't admit it but I still have a collection of genuine BP nuts and bolts that I collected together when building cars in my spare time.
I hope the word spreads and the site keeps on growing.

Gloria Kinghorn England
Have just found the Website and think it's great! My father, Jim Kinghorn, worked at Westwood Works from the late 1920's until he retired in 1971. For several years he was AEU Convenor. I started work there in the Personnel Department (Commercial Training Section) from 1950 to 1962. It was so sad to witness the recent demolition of the old office block. I have a photo somewhere of the Long Service award which my father attended. I'll look it out and send it for inclusion asap.

Dick Talbot UK
Have just heard of the site. I was at the company from 1958 until Iretired early in 1999. WE never knew we had it so good!

Kevin Wilmot England
Both my grandads (Gerry Wortley and Bob Wilmot) worked for many years at Baker Perkins and my Grandad Wortley lived just opposite in Westfield Road. He could leave home at the start of the buzzer (how many people remember that!?) and be at work by the end of it. And he was usually late! I was brought up in Priory Road (mum and dad still live there) and it has been an interesting (and sad) few months watching it slowly disappearing every time I visit my folks.

Nicola Sharp
I worked at Westfield Road from 1987 to 1992 then Rockwell moved to Budget House Bretton where in 1993 I was poached and got a job at Budget Insurance. I am probably remembered as 'Les Sharp's daughter' rather than Nicola!! Hello to all those that know me, I had the best time working at Baker Perkins.

Carol Blant (Nee Hill) England
I worked for Baker Perkins from 1961 to 1971. I joined as a typist in the CPO and then transferred to Personnel as a secretary. I spent my last six years with the company as secretary to Bill Byles, the Director of the Biscuit & CC Division.

My dad, Don Hill, was manager of the Spares Department for many years. He was 82 in October and he and my mum (Queenie) celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary on 2nd October.

My uncle, Derek Hill, was based in the Works Office in Peterborough (1960s) before transferring with the company, initially to Stoke on Trent and then to Basingstoke.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Baker Perkins and I have some very happy memories of evenings spent at the Sports Club in Alma Road.

David Dilloway England
What a great site...!!! and oh so many memories. I will re visit as often as I can and will try to find some old photos that I know I have (somewhere..!!)
Hello to all who remember me and those who dont.
Good luck to every-one involved in this site.keep up the good work.
Dave...

Mick Gutierrez England
What a good web site and brilliant idea! All the memories started to flood back and I can only echo the comments made by Dorothy Edwards regarding it a 'Family' firm. I have started to sort out the photos I have of the Printing Bay of between 1976 and 1990.

Gordon Bloodworth England
Congratulations on a brilliant web site.
I worked in the Estimating Dept, with Gerald Simpson & John Murray as heads of Dept., and that is more years ago than I care to remember, I have happy memories of the Company and of the Sports Club in Alma Road, where I worked part time behind the bar. I now work in what was Belsons Stores, which is now Heatshields Showroom!

Angela Swann
I worked at Baker Perkins for 9 years from 1970 to 1979. I met my husband Brian there, and we have been married for 28 years. It was very sad to see the building go after all those years. This is a great web site and it brought back many happy memories

Jennifer Swan England
My dad Arthur Edey worked at Baker Perkins on the Outdoor Department until his death just before his retirement in September 1979. I would love to hear from anyone who worked with my dad.
Jennifer Swan

Noel Chamberlain england
I am an ex B.P. employee , so was my father J.R. Chamberlain & brother P.J. Chamberlain ,and my wife Barbara Chamberlain [nee Woods ]. I served a 5 year apprenticeship as a tin smith,then 2 years as a improver draughtsman,and finally 10 years as a design draughtsman in the Ovens Section on the third floor, I like many others owe a great deal of thanks to this Company & yourselves for this site.

Sandra Marsh(Ron Marsh) england
hello,to every one.iwould like or if you knew my father 'ronad marsh 'either known has ron or ronnie. he was their after the war and left in 1970 due to ill health sadly he died in 1972.he was very well known for his singing and used to sing in the club and 'the hand and heart.i would be gratefull for anything .thankyou.i feel now when i walk by i feel saddened .because when the building was there i felt my father was still around .because it brings alot of memories for me .i sometimes still hear the buzzer.an waiting for him to come home.look forward to hearing from anyone .

Les Nightingale England
I was at BP from 1969 to 1988,I worked in the Outdoor Dept.I enjoyed every minute of my time working there.
I met some real characters who enriched my life.
I am still in the bakery business and I meet ex BP people who are spread all around the world.
I will make sure everyone I meet gets to know about this excellent site. Thaks to all concerned

Rick Marshall USA
I have just returned from england and was fortunate to see the last remains of BP. The apprenticeship I received was second to none. (1967-72). I have nothing but good memories of the people and the job.

Jim Farrow England
I read in last nights Evening Telegraph about the website you have created to tell the story of Baker Perkins. I quickly logged on and was very impressed with its presentation and content.

The Sports and Social Club played a very important part in the success of the company providing excellent sporting and social facilities. It also sold agood beer at a very good price!!

I took some photographs just after the club had been refurbished and sadly, on its closure.

I will let you have these as soon as I can for you to include in your web pages.

Dick Preston
Re Marshall Grey's note below. has anyone a photograph of the staff hostel, please?
We are still trying to find photographs of the 1960's Company Piper Aztec aeroplane and the Baker Perkins fire engine. Must be something out there somewhere.

Marshall Grey England
At Westwood a craft aprentice moved up to student aprentice when he got his National Certificate. In 1949 this oportunity was offered to aprentices at Bedewell Works.I was the first Student Apprentice to come from Bedewell Works to Westwood. I lived at the Staff Hostel on the corner of Bishops Road, opposite Woolworths. Two legendary figures lived there; Miss Baxter who ran the comptometer room and Walter hardware the gearcutting foreman.I returned to Bedewell in 1953 and married Pamela Willoughby who worked for Eric Reynolds in the CPO.

Gabrielle Abbott England
Before anyone else mentions it, the Westfield Road site did not close in 1991 immediately after APV Baker moved to Paston. Rockwell was still there for another year or so at least. Can anyone come up with an accurate date?

Graham Clay England
Hello fellow Baker Perkins workers.
I served my apprenticeship from 1961 to 1966
but left in 1967 due to working nights. It is great that a website has been set up so that good memories can be revived.
Look forward to receiving further news.

Norman Saltmarsh UK
Great site. Both my Dad ( Norman ) & Mum ( Lucy )worked at BP when I was a child. Good picture of my dad in the 1943 picture of the Home Guard right in the middle of the middle row.

Ernie And Angie Pell England
Great site, both me and my wife worked here, its lovely to see some great photographs and it brings back so many good memories. I started work as an apprentice in 1967 and left in 1976. Angie started in 1970 and left in 1978, having worked in Typing Pool, Personnel, Telephone room.

Rob Fountain England
A very interesting web site with lots on imformation. Just one comment have you any photos or information on the Baker Perkins fire service between 1935 - 1955.

Veronica Witten Ne Wright England
What a wonderful site! so many old photos, I hope that you get more sent in to put on. I recognised a few names in the gallery from my fathers time. anyone remember Bob Wright foreman in the plate shop till 1966 when he died only aged 56. Good luck to all who put this togetherand Thankyou.

Martin UK
This is a fantastic site. I have fond memories of Baker Perkins as my grandparents shop Belson's Stores was opposite. I often used to sell the Evening Telegraph outside the main office entrance when I was allowed. Every dinner time in the shop it was packed with people buying their dinner time filled rolls or cakes etc. My stepfather David Brewin worked in the offices for many years (sadly he died in 2000) and my father Les Pilarski worked there for a while. I was realy sad to see the old building being pulled down finally.
It's ironic that as I'm now an engineer with the electricity board, I had the job to disconnect the final High Voltage electricity supply into the old factory before demolition.

Roger W. Jackson. England.
I was a Student Apprentice from 1960 until 1965, and then stayed on,in various drawing offices, until I left in 1969.
The Baker Perkins apprenticeship was a good one, and it formed a sound basis for my subsequent engineeering career.
I now live just around the corner from the old site, in Mayor's Walk.

Peter Cary ENGLAND
I worked at BP from 1952 until closed in 1991,and have many happy memories of the old place.

Mark Harris England
I spent quite a few happy years at Baker Perkins between 1982 when I started my craft apprenticeship until 1992 when I was unfortunately made redundant because of the immenent closure of the Rockwell site. I think this is a wonderful idea and it brings back many memories for me.

Jean Watier (Strickson) Canada
I worked in the typing pool at BP from 1948 until 1954. My father, George Strickson, was with the firm from approximately 1933 to 1966, as a foreman and later (probably remembered by many) as the first Safety Officer. I was a member of the musical society and played for one season on the hockey team (the worst player ever). During a visit to P'boro in September my husband and I drove by BP and were horrified to see the graffiti on the walls and the desolation - so many memories.

baker@perkins.com
This is an excellent site, fast, easy to use, clean with more info on than im going to be able to read.
I only know 1 person from this company, my Dad, but still find it all very interesting, I never realised the size of this historic company!
I hope the site continues to grow as more and more people log on and keep it going.

Simon Evans United Kingdom
My grandfather, Reginald Evans, worked in the offices at Baker Perkins for many years, retiring in the late Sixties. Unfortunately the information I have about my grandfather's role in the company is very sketchy and I would like to find out more. I believe my great-grandfather also worked at Baker Perkins. Anyone who can help with info I would be most grateful

Dave Symonds UK
Well what can I say, from tiny acorns and all that. What started as a small site with photos of the demolition is slowly evolving into a history of what was a great company. James, Dick, Margaret and all the contributors are doing a great job. Let's keep it up.

Gabrielle Abbott England
I know Dick, Margaret and James are disappointed at the lack of entries in the Guestbook and the Forum - so don't be shy, everyone, share your memories on the website. The stories behind the pictures are even more important and interesting than the pictures on their own.

For example: I have spoken to Peter Robinson today and he confirms that the foreman (wearing a suit, tie and cap)in the 1923 photographs of the pattern makers shop is his grandfather, George Robinson. Can we identify any of the other people in this remarkably detailed set of photographs?

John Rouse england
Nice to see the developement of the site. I think the Bowls Team is probably early 70's but can not be certain, definitely taken at the 'old' green at Alma Road. I think Mick Gilgan may have been the first to go to the perfect bowls green in the sky, but one or two of the older ones may have been there to greet him!

Dave Coles UK
Terrific idea which certainly brings the memories flooding back. I'll certainly be keeping in touch with the site, and looking around for any old photos.

Dave Coles (1958-2001) That's years employed not lifespan!

P.S. I was at Bedewell Works (not demolished but no longer in existance as part of the company) 1974 to 1984. I wonder if anyone has thought of a linked site for there?

Ed Sproston USA
Just to say I really like the Westfield web site as it is developing. I have just been looking at the photos section and wondered where you had got them from. Some of the people in there I thought were born old, but obviously not as you have pictures of them in their youth. Its amazing when you think about the internet, as I can sit here in the US pulling up pictures of long dead Peterborians in real time.

Dick Preston 23/11/03
We have just passed the 1000 hits on the site mark. We would like to thank everyone for their interest. Your comments make it all worthwhile. We intend to develop the site further and you can expect some memories of the Westwood Works Musical Society plus some quite wonderful photos of the Works as it was in 1923. Keep logging on!

Howard Pettit England
Am sure everyone applauds all the efforts being made by James, Dick and Margaret Preston in making and developing this Website into what is obviously a very interesting and memory jogging phenomena! Congratulations, well done and keep it going!

John Rouse Tyneside, England
Hello all ex-employees who may remember me. I came to BP as a student apprentice in 1956 straight from Deacons School (as did many others!) I moved to Bedewell in 1989 and was made redundant in 1998. It is nice to have friends who have contacted me after correspondence in the E.T., perhaps more photos will remind 'us old'uns' of the happier times.
Best Wishes to all involved with this site.
John.

Stephanie Dowey UK
Thanks to Mr & Mrs Preston and James of course for starting this very interesting record for us.

Like many ex-enployees of Baker Perkins, driving along Westfield Road will never be the same for me again.

Keep up the good work guys.

Alan Kirkpatrick England
Joined Baker Perkins in 1965 as a student apprentice. After a varied career took early retirement in 2001 .......... but I cannot seem to leave. I am back again for my second stint as a contractor!

Bradley Williams UK
I am 10 years old and visited the site everyday during the demolition with my grandad who has worked for APV since 1979. My Granny also works at APV and my great grandad worked there too. I think the site is great but can't spot my grandad or great grandad in any of the old faces photos. Will have too see if they have any for you. Great Grandad - Dan Portergill, Grandad Micheal Portergill and Granny Pam Portergill.

Charlie Webster UK
Great Site Guys! I will get some pics from my album at home and send them to you! It certainly is the end of an era.........

Dick And Margaret Preston England
We are very pleased that this web-site appears to have struck a chord with a lot of people. It can be expanded - we are already talking to Les Sharp about using some of his photographs taken as the Works itself came down (including the chimney). Jim Deboo has offered help in plundering the Baker Perkins Archive stored in Peterborough Museum. We like Dorothy Edward's suggestion about including anecdotal reminiscences, perhaps we could develop a sort of "Baker Perkins' Friends Re-united".

Dorothy Edwards England
Many congratulations. I have shots taken in 2002 showing Fire Engine Shed, areas which were once old DO Archives and Barcro, DO3, Works Offices in old building, Fitting and Machine Shops and views from roof. Over the years BP has touched the lives of many people in Peterborough and I think it would be a lovely idea to gather electronic recollections. My grandfather and father both worked at Baker Perkins and of course I met my late husband Trevor there. It must have been one of the last "family" firms in the country who genuinely cared about their workforce and employed many "characters" who will never be forgotten.

Alan Eldred UK
Sad that it had to happen; but so glad that the eyesore the offices became has been removed.
I have some more aerial shots of the site if you want some.
Could this site be extended to include some interior shots?