Celebrating Michael Moore’s five decades with Bryan Donkin Valves and AVK UK
Reaching a 50-year milestone in any career is a remarkable achievement and Michael Moore’s half-century with AVK UK is truly exceptional. 20-11-2024
Straight out of school, Mick started as a fresh-faced 16-year-old apprentice at The Bryan Donkin Company in 1974, growing alongside the business, going from hands-on lathe work to expertise in CNC programming, quality assurance, and mentorship.
His journey at the company reflects the changes within British industry and engineering over the past five decades as well as his own commitment to his craft, adapting to the ongoing advancements in the manufacturing of Donkin’s world-renowned products for the global gas industry.
“When I first started, I didn’t imagine I’d still be here 50 years on,” Mick admits. “But Donkins offered everything I needed – a good job, a great team, and opportunities to learn.”
He recalls his earliest days on the shop floor, crafting studs and spindles, moving to more intricate projects as his skills grew. “It was like my favorite metalworking lessons at school,” he said, remembering managers bringing him sketches on scraps of paper and saying, “make this”.
Black & white image shows Michael beginning his apprenticeship - back row, 2nd from left.
His first wage was £12.24 a week – “enough to give my mum a fiver and keep the rest for myself,” he remembered fondly.
In 1996, the industry began transforming with the arrival of CNC machines, which brought new technical challenges. Mick adapted quickly, learning programming from manuals in his spare time and eventually training others, even making trips to AVK Poznan in Poland.
Bryan Donkin Valves joined the global AVK Group in the late 90s, introducing Mick and his colleagues to new opportunities, with international collaboration and resources. “It was an exciting time,” he said. “Suddenly, we were part of something bigger, in a company operating worldwide.”
In 2007, the company moved to the new flagship facility in Staveley, Chesterfield, where Mick transitioned to the Quality Department, verifying products against AVK’s stringent standards. Though his role shifted to quality control, his expertise with CNC machines remains a valuable resource for colleagues, who frequently turn to him for advice.
Reflecting on his career, Mick said: “I never thought about moving companies. Donkins and AVK offered everything you could want.”
As he prepares to retire in December, just before his 67th birthday, Mick looks forward to spending more time with family and finally enjoying a well-earned lie-in. Though he’ll miss the camaraderie and daily banter with his team, his contributions and dedication will leave a lasting mark at AVK UK.
Jerry Payne, Quality and Compliance Manager, and Mick’s Line Manager, said: “I’ve been very privileged to work alongside Mick for the last eight years, to describe Mick as a colleague, five words spring to mind, trustworthy, approachable, knowledgeable, professional, and reliable. Personally, I will miss Mick’s aptitude and expertise going forward, but after more than 50 years loyal service he thoroughly deserves to enjoy his retirement with his family, and he will leave with my sincere best wishes”.
AVK UK Managing Director Martin Greenhalgh commented on Mick’s milestone: “Bryan Donkin Valves has a long and proud history, and Mick has been part of that legacy for half a century. His career is testament to his loyalty and dedication, not only to the company but to his colleagues and his craft.
“Mick’s commitment, technical skill, and genuine care for his work and his colleagues will leave an impact here for years to come. We’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s given to AVK UK and wish him all the best for his retirement at the end of the year.”
Image above shows Mick and colleague checking production information.
For over 175 years Bryan Donkin Valves has continuously innovated and developed cutting-edge gas valve design within the industry. As Mick embarks on his well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind a legacy at a pivotal time for the Donkin brand, which is entering a new era of innovation. With the recent launch of the Hydrogen-ready Mark 4 Valves, the company is once again making waves in the industry—a journey Mick has played an integral part in. See the link below for more on the Donkin gas gate valve advancements.
