‘About time we did something for him’

Edwin Machin, from Curzon Drive, first started helping out in his dad’s DIY store in 1957.

Since then the family business has weathered many storms and today specialises in picture framing and t-shirt printing.

He was nominated by his good friend Tom Mumby who said Edwin has always been there for him.

“I’ve known him since 1970, and during all that time he’s always been prepared to help his customers,” said Tom, from Newcastle Avenue.

“I used to be a joiner before I worked in the pit and if I’m ever stuck I’ve only got to go to see him and he’ll put me right.”

“He’s gone through some difficulties but has still found the time to be there for others.”

“He’s such a great guy, he’s always helped us and it’s about time we did something for him.”

Machin and Sons DIY was started by Edwin’s father in 1948.

He now works alongside his two daughters Wendy and Tracy who have helped him shape a ‘cutting edge’ business.

“We are very proud of him, as he knows,” added Wendy, from Carlton Road.

“It is a close family working environment, with him and my sister, and he is a great role model for us.”

“We have had to diversify over the years to expand and survive as a business.”

Edwin was presented with the rose in his shop on Watson Road on Tuesday morning and said he felt ‘very humble’ by the gesture.

“It feels very good to know someone has gone to the trouble of organising this to recognise the little things over the years,” he said.

“We have had to develop the business to keep ourselves at the forefront of the market.”