Meet Peter Penlington, Newtown Depot

In April 2024, after over 45 years of loyal service to British Wool and its members in the Newtown region, Peter Penlington retires.  Graze meets with Peter as he is ready to hang up his British Wool hat.

Tell us about yourself:

I am Married to Nichola and have 2 grown-up children and 3 grandchildren.

I was brought up on a farm, and have a love for nature & the outdoors, walking, fishing, and shooting.

I started to work for British Wool in September 1978 as a warehouse temp initially for 6 weeks but was then offered an apprentice graders job by the manager Donald Jones.

I have worked for the company for 45 years + in various roles, an apprentice- grader -senior head grader/joint depot manager currently.

What did you enjoy the most about your role as a Depot Manager in Newtown?

Love to talk to the farmers, about all aspects of farming, working with the lads out in the warehouse, and attending shows.

I also had the role of training the trainee graders, passing on what I have learnt over a long period of time.

What are the biggest changes from when you first started working compared to where the wool sector is now?

Back then when I first started, there were very few man-made fibres competing with British wool, wool was far more valued by everyone and commanded much higher values.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career with British Wool?

No one individual, just tried to do the best I could whatever role I was taking on.

What will you miss when you retire and how will you fill up your time?

I will miss the lads in the warehouse, and the banter is what keeps you going,

Meeting the farmers, some great characters out there.

I am sure my grandchildren will be keeping me busy, and will be passing on my love for the outdoors.