Dorset's Men in Business

Simon Gudgeon

Sculpture by the Lakes

office@sculpturebythelakes.co.uk

I decided to pursue sculpting as my true calling at the age of 40, following a career in law. After showcasing pieces at major exhibitions in locations including New York and Paris, I wanted to find a beautiful setting which would host and inspire more of my artwork.

My wife Monique and I took over the Sculpture by the Lakes site in 2007, turning a former fishery into a relaxing haven which celebrates artwork and nature conservation working seamlessly together.

The park remains a product of passion, not profit. It hosts more than 120 sculptures by me and other talented artists, and is one of only eight accredited botanic gardens in the UK. We also have a fantastic gallery, restaurant and store, offering the ultimate tranquil experience.

Gary Lancaster

Avenue Interiors

avenueinteriors.co.uk / 01305 269070

As an apprentice carpenter, I developed an appreciation of craftsmanship and a love of wood. The concept of a store offering furniture and fittings of high quality and design at affordable prices evolved naturally. I opened Avenue Interiors in November 2015, and since then have experienced such demand for the furniture, gifts and tableware that we had to move to bigger premises at St Martins Place, Bridport Road enabling us to show far more of our ranges.

We have traditional, contemporary and retro furniture to suit any decor and, being an independent business, we can source almost any item not in stock. When ordering furniture, I'm always looking for quality materials and finish, sound design and comfort. I like accessories to be fresh, different or quirky and can't resist anything that makes me smile.

Ant Forshaw

Aston Service Dorset Ltd

01202 574727

Born and bred in Dorset, after leaving the Royal Marines 12 years ago I took over the business from my father, uncle, and grandfather, who established the business back in 1934.

I am very passionate about Aston Martin, which shows in my enthusiasm and the exceptional work we do here, whether it is producing parts for 1950s and 60s cars to send worldwide, supplying parts to AML themselves, or servicing the modern and classic Astons owned by Dorset residents and further afield. 

I always have a crazy project on the go - I'm currently restoring my 1951 DB2 Drop Head, which was found in a forest in the USA where it had been for the last 40 years. I'm also doing a full restoration of a customer's DB6 Mk2, and a completely new-build DB4 GT Zagato. 

With two young sons, hopefully the fourth generation of Aston Martin is in safe hands.

Heath Thresher

Hussey & Briggs

husseyandbriggs.co.uk / 01308 422366

I have only been with Hussey and Briggs since March 2022, after spending 35 years in the retail motor industry, so it's been a steep learning curve me. Fortunately, I am a quick learner, and have a thirst for knowledge. My father was a builder, so I have always been around the construction industry. I am also keen on DIY, which has given me a good footing in my new role, helping me understand the practical challenges. 

Having worked in the highly customer-focused main dealer environment of the motor industry means I bring a lot of transferable skills and insight to the business regarding customer service and processes. I am a very determined and competitive individual, which means I will always endeavour to find a solution to any issue that may arise.

I'm really enjoying my new challenge, and look forward to helping the business grow in the future.

Tim Lester

MBC Bird And Pest Solutions Ltd

O7968 052219

MBC is a bird and pest control company operating throughout Dorset. 

Our aim is to provide a specialist service using falcons and birds of prey to deter nuisance birds such as seagulls, feral pigeons and rooks from sites such as landfill and waste management, golf courses, industrial units, airports or any situation where nuisance birds may come into conflict with local businesses and domestic properties. We also provide general pest control and wildlife management covering most species classed as vermin.

In addition, we are a leading supplier of bird proofing, netting, spikes and deterrent systems to buildings. We specialise in particular with pigeons nesting and roosting below solar panels.

If you are currently experiencing any problem with pests? MBC are the natural choice. Please contact us for further advice or a free survey and quotation.