Richard Ballard, Founder of Ballards Removals in North Nottinghamshire, has been presented with a Lifetime Achievement award. The ceremony took place on 8 September at the North Notts Arena.

Richard founded Ballards Removals in 1978 and built the business up from a single transit van to a fleet of over 50 vehicles. He now works in an advisory and guiding role at the family firm, performing most of the local pre-move surveys, supporting the team at their office in Markham Moor and providing guidance to his sons, Matt and Joe, who are the company’s managing directors.

“It is such an honour to have been selected for this North Notts Business Award,” said Richard. “It really has been a team effort from everyone here at Ballards, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support over the years from my wife, Janette. We have managed to create and grow a fantastic business, which is now in the hands of the second generation of Ballards - our sons, Matt and Joe, to continue this journey even further.”

Richard thanked all his team members at Ballards saying that they do their best day in, day out, to uphold the company values and deliver an incredible service.  “This success would not have been possible without you.”

Matt Ballard, Managing Director of Ballards Removals, said: “We are so proud of Dad for what he has achieved - growing such a successful business from just a small van in the beginning, into what it is today. He has worked so hard over the years, and has now passed on all of his knowledge and experience to me and Joe, so that we can continue to grow the family business and contribute to the success that he has built. This Lifetime Achievement award is thoroughly deserved.”

The North Notts Business Awards aims to celebrate the brightest stars of the North Notts region, highlighting the expertise, achievements and outstanding contributions that these businesses and individuals make to the local economy.

Photo: Richard and Janette Ballard.