RH Claydon manager retires

Jim Parker retired on 18 November 2011 after 37 years in the tyre industry. Parker initially joined Kleber in 1974 as a tyre fitter for its competition department. During his time at Kleber, he took on various job roles including being in charge of the day to day running of the competition department and attending most major rally and race meetings, assisting the tyre manufacturer to six consecutive years of winning the production saloon car and production sports car championships. According to the company, Jim Parker was instrumental in the development of the radial race tyre, which was used intensively on tarmac rally events.

In 1988 Jim joined RH Claydon Ltd as a sales executive, eventually covering East Anglia and the South East. After several years on the road he gained promotion to branch manager of the Saxham depot and head office. In 2005 took on the additional responsibilities of setting up and running the Swindon depot after being promoted to Area Sales & Operations Manager. During his time with RH Claydon Ltd, his technical expertise was put to good use when he helped BKT to design and develop the Agrimaxx tractor radial.

Commenting on the news an official statement said: “All the directors and staff wish Jim a happy official retirement, although he will however continue to assist RH Claydon Ltd to organise and execute their exhibition program and advice on technical subjects.”