David Ridgeon, vice-chairman at Ridgeons, the largest independent timber and builders’ merchant in East Anglia, received an MBE in the New Year’s Honours List 2013 for services to the Builders’ Merchants Industry and within the local Cambridgeshire community.
Taking over the role of managing director and Chairman in 1973, following the death of his father Elliott Ridgeon, Mr Ridgeon was at the helm for over 30 years, helping the Group to expand through acquisitions and organic growth, before handing over to his daughter Anne. During this time, Mr Ridgeon continued to uphold the Group’s commitment in relation to supporting the local community and through sharing profits with a variety of local registered charities.
Ridgeons deputy chairman, Mr Ridgeon’s son-in-law Johnnie Sam commented: “We are delighted that David has received the recognition that he deserves in his unfailing commitment, not just to the Group and industry as a whole, but also to the local communities in which we operate. David has followed in his parents’ footsteps being totally committed to his Baptist Church, and his one hundred year old business with training and education being another vital part of his interests. He has always been prepared, and has enjoyed, taking responsibility whenever and wherever he was involved. The Ridgeons’ Group philosophy is integral to how we, as a business, function. It is our aim to ensure this remains a key part of our company and we continue to honour and support the great work that David has been instrumental in realising.”
