Built to Last: Celebrating Mick’s Retirement
After 28 years with Thorpes, Mick Griffith is packing up his toolbox for the final time as he heads into a well-earned retirement.
Mick’s career has always been rooted in woodworking, beginning with his Wood Trade Craft Course as an apprentice. He went on to work for a number of companies, building up a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way.
In 1997, a chance meeting with a former colleague led him to Thorpes - and the rest, as they say, is history.
We spoke to Mick ahead of his retirement to hear his own reflections upon nearly three decades as part of our company.
Part of the team
Over the years, whilst primarily based in our factory, Mick also spent six years working on-site in London. Whether in London or Leicestershire, he has been a mainstay of Thorpes life, and his contribution goes far wider than the many projects he has been a key part of.
Mick has always been keen to get involved in company life, whether that’s the lottery, football dream team collections, or simply encouraging others to join in. Organising such things might seem small, but they play a massive part in creating togetherness within the company, something Mick understands extremely well. He is quick to point out that his time here will be characterised by the people, and he has many stories to back this up. From fond memories such as introducing Olly Gent to curry, to his site days at the grindstone and through to some stories that are probably more appropriate to ask Mick about over a pint!
Alongside the laughter, Mick acknowledges there have also been more emotional moments. Over the years, Thorpes has lost valued team members but more importantly, friends, including John Luff, George Summers, and Pete Folley - all people that Mick credits as leaving a lasting impression on himself and indeed the wider team.
Among his proudest moments are those Mick describes as “simple but meaningful”: in his own words, “the satisfaction of a job well done, a happy client, and a genuine “thank you” at handover” were all moments that made him feel truly valued.
Resilience and determination
One remarkable chapter in Mick’s story dates back to 1980, when he suffered a serious accident involving a spindle moulder, resulting in the loss of his index finger and part of his thumb on his left hand.
A reminder of the importance of health and safety, but also of Mick’s resilience. Never one to back down from a challenge, he adapted, carried on, and never let it hold him back. Continuing to carve out a successful career as a bench joiner regardless.
When asked what he’ll miss most, Mick’s answer is simple:
“The people. Everyone here is an extension of my family, and I’ll miss seeing them every day.”
Looking Forward
Mick leaves us with some straightforward but valuable advice: “Pin back your ears and listen. Take in what you’re being told.” He also encourages others to speak up if they’re unsure. “It’s better to ask and get it right than to stay quiet and have to redo it.”
In retirement, Mick is looking forward to spending more time with his family and lending a hand wherever he can. A holiday in Kos is already on the horizon, with more trips no doubt to follow. And, of course, there’s a list of DIY jobs at home waiting for him, courtesy of his wife.
As one of the longest-serving members of the shopfloor team, Mick’s presence will be deeply missed. We thank him for his years of dedication and hard work, and we wish him a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.
