A well-respected machine operative at Inlex Locking is heading into retirement after more than four decades in the threadlocking and Sealing industry.
Steve Henshall is calling time on his lengthy career on May 1, two weeks before his 70th birthday.
Steve has worked in threadlocking and sealing for 46 years, having spent 34 years at PSM Fasteners before joining Inlex in Wolverhampton, part of the Anochrome Group, 12 years ago.
He was presented with a bottle of champagne by Operations Manager Wayne Murphy as he turned off his Top 300 machine for the final time.
Steve said: “I left school at 15 and went straight into an ice cream factory for eight years before moving into manufacturing.
“When I was made redundant at the age of 58 I thought I was finished and I’d never work again. I was distraught.
“But Inlex gave me a chance and I’ve had 12 brilliant years here. It’s a great company to work for and I’m sad to say goodbye to the people as I’ve always enjoyed the banter.
“I had some ill health a couple of years ago and the company supported me and looked after me while I was off sick. Against advice, I was determined to come back to work and I’m glad I did.
“The aches and pains are too much now, though, and I am looking forward to some downtime. The dogs will help to keep me active.”
Wolverhampton Wanderers fan Steve is planning a holiday in Mexico to toast the end of his working life with his wife Carol, who he met at PSM when their eyes met over the shopfloor.
Wayne said: “We invited Steve in for one day initially for advice on a machine – but he made a good impression and we could see he cared so we offered him a job.
“We will miss Steve, not just because of his experience and skills but also because of his humour and character.
“We wish him all the very best as he embarks on this next chapter in his life.”
Part of the Anochrome Group, Inlex provides a comprehensive range of threadlocking and sealant products for today’s high-tech fastening applications, serving a variety of sectors including automotive, off-highway and construction.