With the upcoming launch of its first retail DIY shop in Stourport, builders merchant Thompson & Parkes has appointed Nikki Shipton as Stourport’s new manager and Harry Dowling-Bingle as its supervisor.

Building a new team from scratch, Ms Shipton commented: “I’m thrilled to be a part of Thompson and Parkes and I am very excited to be on this journey with some really great people.

“The Stourport building itself is amazing and we’ve been hands on with its restoration. Harry has great qualities and skills and I’m delighted to welcome him to our growing team.”

Ms Shipton's previous management experience of the building industry encompasses painting and decorating and landscape gardening sectors, whilst Harry’s leadership experience includes engineering and manufacturing.

Mr Dowling-Bingle commented: “I’m excited to join Thompson & Parkes and to be part of Stourport’s new and dynamic team and overjoyed to take on the challenges of my new role.”

Operating a fleet of delivery vehicles serving the local area, Thompson & Parkes employs over 20 local people and has been trading localy within Worcestershire and Shropshire for over 80 years, with their new Stourport retail venture opening 7 days a week and offering a range of gardening tools and accessories.

Ms Shipton added: “I’m looking forward to making the business a success and for it to thrive, with my immediate plans, once everything is up and running smoothly, to ensure our new retail shop is a friendly and welcoming place for all our customers.”

Read a full retailer profile on Thompson and Parkes in the 23 August of DIY Week.