HITTING THE PEAKS WITH NEW DAD GEORGE
It was 2006 when Derbyshire-based contractor George Martin completed his first fencing job and, 19 years on, he’s still bitten by the bug.
“It was a post and rail job based locally near the village of Chinley, where I’m based,” explained George, who set up on his own in July 2014 after a stint working with an old school friend as well as carrying out some drystone walling.
“I started working on farms when I left school but gradually gravitated towards fencing, and I get a great deal of satisfaction out of it. It’s fantastic to see a job finished and think that ‘I did that all by myself.’
“I really enjoy the little details of putting up a fence. I’ve learnt a lot over the years from other fencers both in the real world and online, and they’ve all contributed to my attention to detail.
“There are so many online videos that share tips and techniques, and I regularly use these resources to improve my own skill set,” added George, who works alone but has often considered recruiting additional workers.
“I’m always contemplating taking on staff to cope with demand, but I guess I’m quite happy working by myself. That said, never say never, and I may well take the plunge in the foreseeable future.
“It’s a big move for a one-man contracting business, and it’s critical that you get the right person, so it needs to be carefully thought out,” he added.
Generally focused on agricultural clients within a twenty-mile radius of Peak District village Chinley, where he’s based, George gets a lot of his work through word of mouth, but he’s found a rich seam of new work by embracing social media.
“Facebook has been brilliant in helping me promote my business, as well as Snapchat and Instagram. If you create interesting content from time to time, based on your own experiences, then folks sit up and take notice.
“I did have a website but let it lapse recently, as my social media presence seems to work a lot more effectively.”
When it comes to machinery, George is well served with an MF6260 tractor with a Protech attached to the rear, as well as a tracked Kubota RG30 with a Protech P22 post knocker. He also owns a Quickfencer.
“It obviously depends on the nature of the job and the terrain as to which piece of kit is out in the field, but I’m a big fan of Protech and Quickfencer—they get the job done. My ‘kit’ covers almost every eventuality.
“I’m always considering upgrading my machinery, but it’s a big investment for a one-man band and, like recruitment, needs to be carefully considered. You have to be confident that there’s a return on investment, but so far, I’ve done well in that regard.”
George became a father for the first time 14 months ago, and that has proved to be a journey of discovery.
“She’s just started walking, so every day is different, and it’s made me realise and appreciate why I work so hard.”
George’s work ethic is reaping dividends, and with a substantial pipeline of work, he’ll be hitting the peaks for many years to come.
George Martin
Mob: 07900 926497
