Sophie Hall – Celebrating 20 years at Warren

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This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of our most respected and admired team members – Sophie Hall, who is celebrating 20 years with the company.

Sophie joined Warren at a time when it was still rare to see women in engineering roles – particularly in rural Norfolk. She had completed her Engineering Apprenticeship with Bosch in Stowmarket, but after a less-than-ideal stint at a small commercial glazing company in Brandon, she found herself at a crossroads.

Through mutual friends and family connections, Richard and Will Bridgman approached Sophie with an invitation to join Warren. Initially, she declined – but undeterred, they persisted. Thankfully, she eventually said yes, and joined the business just as it was relocating to the Fison Way site in Thetford.

It proved to be an excellent decision for all involved. Sophie has never looked back, and Warren has never looked the same.

Even in her earliest days, Sophie stood out. Her technical training, professionalism and determination were immediately evident – and so too was her influence on the workplace culture. She quickly instigated the removal of outdated ‘girly’ calendars and helped set a new tone for the business. She was, and still is, uncompromising when it comes to sexism or casual remarks – and helped Warren become a more inclusive, accommodating and respectful company.

Over the past two decades, Sophie has taken on a wide variety of roles across the business. She’s been instrumental in:

  • Estimating, costing and planning
  • Customer visits and site surveys
  • Organising and managing trade shows – including one event that led to securing one of Warren’s largest accounts
  • Mentoring young people, especially during school visits and community outreach

Her technical knowledge, combined with her excellent people skills, make her one of the company’s most trusted ambassadors. When customers come to visit, Sophie is often the one showing them around, offering real insight into our operations, backed by two decades of first-hand experience.

Today, Sophie is focused on Business Development – one of the most challenging roles in any company. Cold calling and pursuing new leads is never easy, but Sophie handles it with resilience and professionalism. She knows that you often only get a few seconds to make an impression, and she uses her wealth of experience to do just that.

Sophie has paved the way for more women to enter engineering. Her example has encouraged a cultural shift that is now becoming visible. This year, for the first time, two of the four new Engineering Apprentices joining Warren from Thetford Academy are female – a milestone that reflects just how far things have come, thanks to pioneers like Sophie.

Sophie, you’ve helped shape Warren into the company it is today. Your strength, your standards, your humour and your humanity are woven into our culture, and we are incredibly proud to have you as part of the team.

Thank you for 20 outstanding years. Here’s to many more!

Warren celebrates 35 years- then and now

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This year, Warren proudly marks 35 years in business. From its modest beginnings in a garage to becoming a leading name in precision engineering, the journey of Warren (formerly Warren Services), is a story of family, dedication and a passion for British manufacturing.

Here is a brief history of how Warren started, with photos of back then and now. You can read more about our main milestones on our website here.

Buildings

Then:
It all began in 1990, when Richard and Sharon Bridgman officially started Warren in the Old School at Feltwell. But as HR Director Estee Ross reminded us, the very first home of Warren was actually their garage!

Old School at Feltwell

In 2004, Warren made a bold move by investing in a near-derelict 30,000 sq. ft building on Fison Way, Thetford.

Now:
Today, Warren operates from two impressive facilities in Thetford. The original Fison Way factory was joined in 2014 by a second site at Brickfields Way. Together, these sites provide over 80,000 sq. ft of advanced manufacturing, fabrication and assembly space.

Fison Way site

Brickfields Way site

Staff

Then:
The Warren team began with just five people. Richard and Sharon were joined by three trusted colleagues from Richard’s previous business in Brandon: Paul Green (fondly known as Squeak), Paul Tuffs (Tuffy), and Ray Underhill. Tuffy left in 1993 to pursue a new role, but Paul and Ray stayed on to help shape the company’s future.

The original Warren Services team

Between 1990 and 1997, Warren invested in its people, bringing in apprentices and even acquiring its first computer to generate professional invoices – a forward-thinking move at the time!

Now:
Warren now employs 113 skilled individuals. Paul Green remains a vital part of the team – a testament to his loyalty and the close-knit culture Richard and Sharon fostered from the beginning. Ray has since retired and his contribution lives on in the business he helped build.

The current Warren team

Ray recently returned, alongside his wife, to help celebrate Warren’s 35-year anniversary milestone.

Richard, Paul and Ray

Branding – Logo and Website

Then:
In its early days, Warren’s branding was simple and functional, much like the business itself.

Warren Services’ original logo

 

Warren Services’ original website

 

Warren Services’ lorry with original logo

Now:
In 2023, Warren Services rebranded to become simply ‘Warren’. The refreshed logo and newly designed website represent a confident, modern business that’s still rooted in its values but looking firmly to the future. The updated identity better reflects the scale, ambition and professionalism of Warren today.

Warren’s new logo

Warren’s new website

 

Warren’s newly branded clothing

Directors

Then:
A key moment in the company’s growth came in 2001, when Will Bridgman, (Richard and Sharon’s son) joined the business after studying Business and Finance at the University of Birmingham. By 2002, Warren had reached a £1 million turnover and Will stepped into the role of Managing Director.

Richard, Sharon and Will celebrating the acquisition of the Fison Way site.

Now:
Today, Warren is led by a dynamic board of directors: Will Bridgman (Managing Director), Estee Ross (HR Director), Becky Mason (Financial Director), and Lee Charlton (Operations Director). This talented team is continuing to drive the company forward, combining decades of experience with fresh ideas and strategic vision.

Will, Estee, beck and Lee – current Directors of Warren

Projects

Then:
Warren’s early success came in the theatre and stage industry, with bespoke winches and automation systems taking Richard and his team as far as the United States. This vintage photo shows Richard hard at work in America – a snapshot of Warren’s hands-on origins and global ambition.

Richard – working in America

Now:
While still known for its engineering versatility, Warren has diversified into a broad range of industries. Today, the company works extensively in the construction, agriculture and turbine sectors, building on its solid reputation for innovation and quality.

One of Warren’s recent projects – modular balconies

Here’s to the next 35 years!
As Warren reflects on this incredible journey, the Bridgman family and all at Warren thank everyone – staff, customers, suppliers and supporters who’ve played a role in reaching this milestone. From a garage in Brookville to a multi-site engineering powerhouse, Warren’s story is proof that with vision and hard work, anything is possible.

Celebrating 20 years of dedication – Fraser Craigen

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This year marks a major milestone for one of our longest-serving team members – Fraser Craigen, who is celebrating 20 years with Warren Services.

Fraser’s journey into the world of manufacturing began in an unexpected way. Originally a Game Keeper, Fraser made a career change due to health reasons. Through word of mouth and a family connection (his brother Darren was our very first apprentice), Fraser was offered a role with us and the rest as they say, is history.

Starting out briefly at our Feltwell factory, Fraser has been with us through decades of growth and change, from our expansion to two factories and the development of the Kilverstone site. A true constant throughout it all, Fraser has taken every challenge in his stride, always willing to go the extra mile.

As one of the first employees at our Fison Way site, Fraser was instrumental in shaping and managing our Goods In & Out processes, as well as coordinating transport across all sites. His work ensures finished goods are correctly booked out, securely packaged, and delivered to customers across the country — no small task when you’re dealing with large and complex items like balconies, which require careful coordination between our Brickfields and Kilverstone locations.

In more recent years, Fraser has also taken on the growing challenge of recycling management, working closely with Sackers to ensure our waste and scrap processes are efficient, compliant, and environmentally responsible.

What’s written here only scratches the surface of the contribution Fraser has made over two decades. He carries enormous responsibility and his knowledge, reliability and calm approach are appreciated by everyone who works with him.

From all of us at Warren, thank you Fraser for your 20 years of service, dedication and hard work. We look forward to the years to come and the continued success we’ll share together.

Easter raffle raises £500 for children’s charity

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We’re delighted to share the final update from our Easter raffle – and we’re proud to announce that we raised £500 in support of West Suffolk Hospital’s WiSH Upon a Star Children’s Appeal.

This important charity works to enhance the care that young people receive across the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, both in hospital and in the wider community. The Trust supports a population of around 280,000 people – with more than 160,000 of those aged 18 or under, so the impact of this appeal reaches far and wide.

The Warren team came together to deliver another fantastic fundraising effort for a truly worthy cause. A huge thank you goes to Becky and Christine for all their hard work in organising the raffle, selling tickets and collecting donations – your dedication makes events like this possible.

Thank you also to everyone who donated prizes and to those who bought tickets so generously. Your support means a lot and helps us continue to give back to our community in meaningful ways.

Well done, team Warren – and happy (belated) Easter to all!

A royal honour: Visit from Lady Dannatt, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk

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On Thursday 10th April, we had the privilege of welcoming a very special guest to Warren Services – Lady Dannatt, the Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk.

As His Majesty’s representative in the county, the Lord-Lieutenant plays a unique and important role in promoting goodwill, supporting community initiatives, and recognising excellence across Norfolk. Lady Dannatt, who holds this position, is deeply committed to strengthening local communities and takes a keen interest in businesses, voluntary organisations and education.

Her visit to Warren Services focused on our work with young people, particularly in the areas of skills development, apprenticeships and engagement with local schools and colleges. We were proud to share how we support learners, help bridge the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing, and encourage others in the sector to follow suit.

The tour went smoothly and the discussions that followed were both meaningful and encouraging. We were honoured to learn that Lady Dannatt plans to write to His Majesty The King to share details about our company and the positive impact we are making.

In a further mark of recognition, we were delighted to receive an invitation to attend The King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday 14th May – a true honour and a testament to the dedication of our team in promoting education and opportunity within our industry.

More news and photos from this exciting occasion will be shared soon.

Will Bridgman announced as Chair of EEIN

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We’re proud to share some fantastic news from the Warren Services team – our Managing Director, Will Bridgman, has been appointed as Chair of the EAL Engineering Industry Network (EEIN).

Will’s appointment is a reflection of his longstanding commitment to training, apprenticeships and education in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. His passion for developing the next generation of talent is well known across Norfolk, and he has been a driving force behind many local initiatives to support learners and close skills gaps.

As Chair of EEIN, Will will continue to strengthen partnerships between industry and education. He actively collaborates with schools and colleges to help shape learning experiences that are meaningful, relevant, and aligned with real-world needs. Whether it’s inviting students into our facilities to see engineering in action, or helping shape sector-wide qualifications, Will is focused on making a difference.

His mission is clear: to ensure qualifications are not only fit for purpose but also empower learners to succeed in their chosen career paths.

Congratulations, Will. We know you’ll bring your energy, insight and leadership to the role, and we’re excited to see the positive impact this will bring to our industry and community.

Warren ladies enjoy an afternoon out in Norwich

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In April, a group of the Warren ladies headed out to Norwich for a well-earned afternoon of great food, drinks, and even better company.

Once we’d done a quick headcount, we were delighted to find there are now 20 women working at Warren – a fantastic number and a real shift compared to years gone by. It was lovely to see so many of us able to come together outside of work, especially with colleagues we may not usually cross paths with day to day.

The team enjoyed a relaxed afternoon at Mr Postles, where good conversation flowed just as easily as the drinks. It was a brilliant opportunity to unwind, catch up and share a few laughs away from the workplace.

A big thank you to everyone who joined – here’s to more afternoons like this in the future!

Lighting the Warren Beacon in tribute

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At 9:30pm on Thursday 8th May, we gathered at the Fison Way roundabout to take part in a nationwide moment of reflection. The Warren Beacon was lit as part of a coordinated tribute across the UK, joining hundreds of other beacons shining brightly in towns and communities across the country.

It was a fantastic fire – a striking and symbolic display, and our thanks go to Scott Fraser for organising the event and lighting the beacon on the night.

These commemorative moments are always moving, and this one was no different. As the beacon burned, we stood alongside others from our local area, quietly taking a moment to reflect on times passed and the significance of the occasion.

Thank you to everyone who came along and made the evening so memorable. It was a simple yet powerful reminder of the strength we find in coming together – something that holds true both in our community and in our company.

Celebrating 35 years with some high-speed fun

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On Sunday 11th May, our Founder and Owner, Richard, had a fantastic idea. To mark our 35th birthday as a company, he wanted to treat the whole team to a day out – and what better way to celebrate than with a bit of friendly competition on the go-kart track!

We didn’t expect the sign-up to be quite so popular, but we were thrilled when an incredible 43 team members joined in, making this the largest turnout we’ve ever had for a company sporting event.

Teams of three were selected at random, which brought plenty of laughs (and a little bit of healthy grumbling!). Over 1.5 hours of driving time, our teams battled it out under the blazing sun – it was an exceptionally hot day, but that didn’t dampen the competitive spirit.

Our overall team winners were Karol and Harry – yes, a team of two managed to beat the rest! And the fastest lap of the day went to Dan Barnard, who arrived fully kitted out in his own racing suit and helmet – we had a feeling he’d be one to watch.

It was brilliant to see so many of our colleagues come together for such a fun and energetic day. A huge thank you to everyone who took part – your team spirit and enthusiasm were exactly what this celebration was all about.

We captured lots of great moments on camera – scroll down to see a few of our favourite shots from the day.

Here’s to 35 years – and many more to come!

Happy 35th birthday to Warren!

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May 2025 marks a truly special milestone for everyone at Warren – we’re officially 35 years old! What began in a small garage has grown into a thriving manufacturing and engineering company with over 120 employees and two state-of-the-art sites in Thetford.

From our early days in 1990, when founders Richard and Sharon moved the business into one half of an old village school in Feltwell, we’ve been focused on growth, innovation and investing in people. Fast forward to today and we’re proud to be a forward-thinking, family-run company still driven by those same values – with a rich history of developing talent, expanding capabilities and leading the way in engineering excellence.

You can read more about our journey on our History page, but for now we’d like to take a moment to celebrate what we’ve achieved – and what better way to do that than with a bit of fun and food!

To mark our 35th birthday, we’re kicking off the celebrations with a company Go-Karting trip!

50 team members have already signed up and we’re sure it’s going to be a great day out filled with friendly competition, fast corners and lots of laughs.

Then on Monday 12th May, we’ll be continuing the celebrations back at Warren HQ with some tasty treats for everyone to enjoy.

As part of our celebration, we want to shine a light on someone who’s been part of Warren from the very beginning: Paul Green. Paul has been with us since day one (a remarkable 35 years) and his loyalty, skill and commitment have been a huge part of Warren’s success. Thank you, Paul, for all the years you’ve dedicated to the business.

From pioneering computerised invoicing in the early ’90s to achieving multi-million-pound turnover, expanding our facilities and being recognised with national awards for talent development and sustainability, Warren has always been about looking forward. And while we’re proud of the last 35 years, we’re even more excited for the next 35.

To everyone who has contributed to our story (past and present), thank you. Here’s to more innovation, more growth and many more reasons to celebrate.

Happy Birthday, Warren!