JCB photographer Michael Lee today unleashed a living reminder of his 50 years’ service at the company on to the lakes at the World HQ.
It’s been a tradition for the past 45 years for the JCB lakes at Rocester to be re-stocked with wildfowl to bring some colour to the natural environment. Among the breeds chosen to be released on to the lakes today were aptly-named Golden Eye ducks – in honour of Michael’s golden service anniversary. Also released were a pair of orange ringed teals.
Michael joined JCB on April 13th and he is only the fourth employee to have ever attained the 50 year service milestone since the company was founded in 1945.
Michael, 70, of Uttoxeter, said: “I can’t actually believe it’s 50 years since I joined JCB. I’ve had a fabulous time here and have photographed virtually everyone of note who has ever walked through the door, from Royalty to politicians to film stars. It makes a change for me to be the other side of the camera today but it’s lovely that there’s a living reminder on the lake of my 50 years’ service.”
The lake in front the World HQ started life as a humble pond before the area was landscaped in 1969. The lake and its two neighbouring one are hailed as one of the most impressive examples of industry in harmony with nature.
Lord Bamford, who himself celebrates 50 years’ service with JCB this year, said: “Michael is one of JCB’s true characters and one of the most recognisable faces in the company. He has, quite literally, photographed thousands of people over the past 50 years, not just famous visitors, but also customers and dealers from all over the world. I congratulate him on 50 wonderful and loyal years of service.”