One of the largest privately-owned mechanical and electrical firms in the south, employing 60-plus staff, has just notched up its centenary.

Winchester-based W Churches was founded as a plumbing concern in 1905 by Walter Churches, who brought on home-grown apprentices.

One such lad, Rodney Rich, the current managing director and joint owner, has stayed on since signing up 47 years ago.

He has held every engineering position at the firm, and even pushed a handcart around the back streets of the historic cathedral city as part of his work!

Appropriately enough, W Churches is located opposite the Hospital of St Cross, which was founded in 1130 and has its own chapel.

A major and long-standing client is Hampshire County Council, with a remit to look after schools, libraries, care homes, fire stations and day centres.