Russell Roof Tiles has celebrated its 50th year along with 220 distinguished guests, who gathered at St George’s Park in Burton-on-Trent to mark the firm’s half century.

The night was organised in part to honour those involved since the founding of the firm as the Annandale Tile Company in Lochmaben in 1965 with the purchase of an 11-acre site. Russell Roof Tiles has weathered many storms since then but is today an award-winning manufacturer with flagship factories in Burton-on-Trent and Lochmaben, and a workforce of 160.

Among the guests were the directors of Russell Roof Tiles parent company, Crown Global Equity in Mexico.

Attendees were entertained by legends of sport, boxer John Conteh and cricketer Geoff Miller OBE, who were joined at St George’s Park, the headquarters of British football by award-winning BBC radio sports presenter, Garry Richardson.

Throughout 2015 Russell Roof Tiles has marked its birthday with events and activities including raising thousands of pounds for the Macmillan Cancer Care and Help for Heroes charities, with its sales force losing 12 stone in weight for charity, taking part in the Roofing Racers London Triathlon and the company hosting a huge family event for all the staff.

Andrew Hayward, managing director at Russell Roof Tiles, said: “It was a fantastic way to celebrate the landmark anniversary of a company we are all so proud of.

“The highlight of the evening was presenting the ‘Significant Contribution’ awards. One was a special posthumous award to the original founder John Gibson and was accepted by his daughter, Mary Colborn.

“Awards were also given to former managing director of Russell Roof Tiles, Paul Rosie, and Alexander Russell chief executive officer Graeme Nicolson.”

Mr Hayward said: “It was the opportunity to honour people that have really made the company what it is today.”

Russell Roof Tiles has also launched a DVD profiling its 50 years in business.

Image: (l-r) John Conteh, Andrew Hayward, Geoff Miller, Garry Richardson