HULL: MKM Building Supplies' executive chairman David Kilburn has paid personal tribute to managing director Bill Acton who is stepping down from the company after 12 years.
"Throughout his time with MKM, Bill has worked closely with me to drive the business forward and has played an integral part in establishing it as UK's largest independent builders' merchants, " said Mr Kilburn.
Mr Acton announced his decision to leave the company after the untimely death of his wife, Lynne, to pursue other interests including cycling, golf and renovating a house.
"Bill is well known across the industry and will be sadly missed by all those who have had the opportunity of working with him during his career, " said Mr Kilburn.
"Bill has made a huge contribution to the success of MKM and it was with great sadness that we have received his news. He said the tragic passing of Lynne had caused him to re-evaluate his priorities and lifestyle, and we fully support his decision.
"Bill's announcement has forced me to look back on the last 12 years of life at MKM and what became apparent was just how much he and Lynne feature in those memories.
"We have had some tremendous highs and a few lows too, but in the main we have loved every minute; we have travelled the world together and built a great business. Mostly importantly however, we have all had loads of fun in the process."
Mr Kilburn went on to say that he wanted to thank Mr Acton for his personal support and friendship which had helped him through some of the more difficult days at MKM.
"Much of what we have achieved would not have been possible without Bill and I will be immensely sad to see him go. It marks the end of a great era for MKM and the start of a new adventure for Bill, and I wish him every success in whatever he decides to do and wherever life takes him."
