As we continue celebrating Tamdown’s 50th anniversary, we’re proud to share the seventh instalment of our Spotlight series — shining a light on the people who have helped shape our journey. Each story brings to life the experiences of our longest‑serving colleagues, whose dedication, hard work, and personality have played a key role in building the business we know today. Their reflections not only look back on how far we’ve come, but also highlight the values, culture, and team spirit that continue to drive us forward.
This month, we caught up with Lonny Spall, Site Manager, who has the unique honour of celebrating his 50th birthday in the very same month Tamdown turns 50. We spoke to Lonny about his journey with the business, his proudest moments, and the experiences that have shaped his time with us.
What originally attracted you to join the company over 26 years ago?
I’d been self-employed for about five years when I joined Tamdown in January 2000. At the time, Tamdown was everywhere — you couldn’t miss them. I remember Rob Kendal was the surveyor on Oak Hill Park in Saffron Walden when I was made up to manager.
Do you remember your first day on site — what was it like?
Yes, I do, I was picked up from home at 6am by John Crick along with my gang, and we were dropped off at Great Leighs to work for Charlie Woollard, the site manager.
The first thing Charlie said when we got out of the van was, “So, what can you do, boys?” That stuck with me. Years later, when I became a site manager myself — ironically on a site where Charlie was the plant operator before he retired — I found myself saying the same thing to him!
How has your role evolved over the years?
I started out as a groundworker — an all-rounder really, apart from deep drainage. I always wanted to do my best and push myself. I knew I had ambition and wanted to learn everything I could.
I was lucky to be surrounded by experienced people early on, and that had a big influence on me — I learned by watching the standards they set. Shaun Moon, my Contracts Manager at Harold Wood played a big part in shaping the manager I became.
What has kept you with the company for so long?
I’d like to think a bit of cheeky charm has helped! But honestly, I’ve always had a good rapport with our customers, and I’ve never had bad reports on projects.
The opportunities to progress have kept me motivated too. You’re always encouraged to do more and be better. And it’s the people as well — I’ve built strong relationships across the business over the years, with people like Lee Haylock, Marcus Jones and many others.
Plus, I enjoy the banter — the ‘crack’ as we call it. That’s a big part of it.
How has the company changed since you first joined?
When I first joined, there were probably 400–500 men and around 50 or 60 jobs on the go. A lot has grown and evolved since then, but the core of the company still feels the same. The vision and goals haven’t really changed.
What are the biggest differences in site management then vs now?
The biggest change? Computers—definitely! I’d much rather be out on site than sat behind a screen.
For me, managing the team is about being present — doing my toolbox talks, keeping the team motivated, and creating a good environment. I like to bring a bit of personality to site as well — we’ve got World Cup flags up on the cabins at the moment.
Is there anything from the ‘old days’ you still miss?
The Christmas get-togethers — those were always something to look forward to.
Is there a project that stands out as particularly challenging or rewarding?
Heybridge, where I am currently, stands out. We’ve been nominated for Pride in the Job for three years running. The ground conditions are tough here — water and gravel, not easy at all.
On top of that, we had to get 160 foundations in within six months before the NHBC regulations changed. It was a real push, but we got it done with three days to spare. Considering the conditions, I was really proud of that.
We’ve also had a bit of fun here —’Team Heybridge’ played a football match against the housebuilders, Vistry in October 2024… they beat us 11–1, so maybe not our finest moment!
What projects are you most proud to have worked on?
Truthfully, I’m proud of all of them — every job brings its own rewards and challenges.
A few stand out though. Bakers Mill in Sudbury, where I worked as a groundworker with Gary Rogers and we won our first NHBC Pride in the Job award — that was a big moment.
Harold Wood was a big one too—a multi-phase job. Then there were the two concrete frame projects at Chadwell Heath.
I genuinely enjoy every job though — no two are the same, and that’s what keeps it interesting.
Can you share a memorable story?
There’s been plenty over the years!
I met Gemma Collins at Harold Wood — which you don’t expect on a building site — and Stavros Flatley as well.
One that sticks with me though — Regan, our site supervisor at Heybridge once told me not to walk across a certain area because it was so muddy… I ignored him and got stuck. He still pulls my leg about that to this day!
What has been your most satisfying achievement with the company?
I’d say it’s about staying in the job and building relationships. I love being part of a team. I take pride in the connections I’ve built with the lads and just being a steady part of the company over the years.
How would you describe the company culture?
I like Tamdown’s culture of putting people first — it aligns with my values. Looking out for each other, supporting each other — that matters to me.
There are still good touches as well, like the wellbeing initiatives. Even something simple like having pizza delivered on site — it all helps bring people together.
Have you mentored others coming into the industry?
Yes — Regan’s the one that stands out straight away. He started as an apprentice on my site and has always been keen to learn and get stuck in.
I took him under my wing because I could see something in him. He had the right attitude, wanted to progress, and wasn’t afraid of hard work. Watching him grow into a site supervisor has been brilliant—I’m really proud of what he’s achieved.
What qualities make a great site manager today?
A bit of cheeky charm! But more than anything, you’ve got to genuinely enjoy what you do — I wouldn’t still be here if I didn’t.
Positivity is important, and so is empathy. You need to understand people and make sure everyone on site is alright. That’s what makes you approachable.
And don’t forget to have a laugh. If you can keep spirits up and build a good atmosphere, the whole site runs better.
What advice would you give to a youngster?
Stand tall, chest out, and don’t let things knock you down. Roll with the punches and just keep going.
Hard work and perseverance go a long way in this industry.
What keeps you motivated?
My family, 100%. My wife and kids are a big driver for me — I work hard to provide for them, and I’m a very proud dad, especially seeing how well they’re doing at school and my son in his new job.
Then there’s the dog, Hugo — our cockerpoo — he keeps things lively at home!
And of course, Tottenham Hotspur… although they don’t always help with the stress levels!
I wouldn’t come to work if I didn’t enjoy it. That’s a big part of what keeps me going.
You’re celebrating your 50th birthday in July which coincides with the company’s 50th year — what does this milestone mean?
It’s a big one! And with it being the World Cup tournament, it couldn’t have been better timing.
What advice would you give to someone starting out today?
Take pride in your work — no matter how small the job might seem. Even if you’re just laying a few slabs, do it properly and do it well.
That mindset will carry you forward.
Thank you to Lonny for sharing his stories and reflections from years gone by. We hope you’ve enjoyed this look back at our shared history. Be sure to keep an eye out for next month’s feature, where we’ll spotlight another long‑serving colleague and continue celebrating 50 years of dedication, growth, and community.
