Personalities
Personalities
We are proud and delighted to introduce our industry personalities, all of whom are highly respected experts in their respective fields of expertise.
Bruce Read
Bruce Read is the co-founder of Paving Superstore and has built his career around understanding the needs of landscaping professionals, from project planning through to material supply.
Starting in landscaping, Bruce managed projects and quotations, gaining first-hand insight into the importance of reliable supply, consistent quality, and competitive pricing. Working alongside Georgina Read, a trained garden designer, he contributed to award-winning outdoor spaces, achieving multiple RHS accolades and developing a strong foundation in both practical delivery and design.
Recognising the need for a more efficient and cost-effective supply model, Bruce moved into e-commerce, initially supplying aggregates nationwide before launching Paving Superstore in 2006.
Under his direction, the business has grown into an industry leader and pioneer, offering extensive choice across leading brands alongside a strong own-brand and imported range—delivering high-quality products and some of the best overall pricing in the industry, supported by strong customer relationships.
Paving Superstore supplies leading landscapers, designers, and contracting companies, supporting both domestic and commercial projects nationwide. The business also provides bespoke solutions, including made-to-order products, custom cutting, custom masonry, and specialist sourcing, enabling professionals to meet precise project requirements.
Bruce remains focused on strengthening Paving Superstore as the obvious choice for landscaping professionals, combining product choice, flexibility, and competitive pricing with dependable supply.
John Mellor
John Mellor is the owner of Manor Prestige Landscapes Ltd, specialising in high quality hard landscaping with a strong focus on doing the job properly and delivering consistent results.
John started out as a fencing contractor straight from school and was self employed by the age of 18, running his own van and labourer. He spent years installing a wide range of fencing, from timber and metal railings to security fencing around schools, as well as fitting MUGAs and playground equipment.
In 2016, John moved into resin bound driveways before transitioning into hard landscaping in 2018, which is now the core of his business.
He joined the Marshalls Register in 2019, where he built strong industry connections and has since achieved multiple regional awards along with two national awards.
John takes pride in his work, never cuts corners and always takes the time to learn and understand the correct way to install anything he takes on.
Lisa Leach
Bringing deep product knowledge, practical experience and dependable supply to landscapers and estates across the UK.
Lisa Leach is the founder of Hardy Landscaping Ltd and the creator of The Landscaper’s Farm Shed in West Yorkshire. Known for her reliability, product knowledge and practical understanding of natural stone, she supplies premium hard‑landscaping materials to landscapers, designers and estates across the UK.
Raised on a working farm in Brontë Country, Lisa developed an early appreciation for the land and the materials that shape it. After studying at Askham Bryan College and completing a Business Management degree at Leeds University, she launched her first company in 2004, specialising in the maintenance of natural stone surfaces. This hands‑on experience continues to inform her work today.
Following the sale of that business, Lisa co‑founded a reclaimed stone yard before establishing her own merchant business in 2018, focusing on Natural Paving (Talasey) and high‑quality new stone products. In 2022, she expanded the business into Hardy Landscaping Ltd, now supplying a comprehensive range of hard‑landscaping materials nationwide.
Her work includes supplying stone and masonry for the Aldwark Manor Estate and supporting advanced installations such as driveway turntables and pedestal paving systems for the London School of Economics. In 2023, she built The Landscaper’s Farm Shed, which hosted its first APL Cluster Meeting last year, establishing it as a valued hub for industry professionals.
Charles Pickwell
Ashley Dempsey
Ashley Dempsey is a highly skilled landscaping, paving, and restoration specialist with over 20 years of full-time experience in the industry. Through his business, Dempsey Heritage, he continues a strong family tradition of hands-on craftsmanship, specialising in traditional stone paving, original brickwork, heritage restoration, and stone sett and cobble driveway construction.
Beginning his working life at 15 in the horse racing industry, Ashley developed the discipline and outdoor work ethic that now define his approach to landscaping. His deep respect for historic materials and techniques has shaped his career, making him well-regarded for delivering character-rich, durable, and authentically restored surfaces.
Ashley is continually refining his skills, from traditional building methods to hand-carved stone lettering, ensuring every project benefits from both time-honoured craftsmanship and modern best practice. Known for his honesty, practicality, and meticulous attention to detail, he brings a genuine passion for preserving heritage to everything he undertakes.
Outside of work, Ashley is a family man with three children and enjoys history, dog training with his German Shepherd, and caring for his retired racehorses—interests that mirror his patience, dedication, and commitment to doing things the right way.
Matt Freestone
With a decade of social media experience, Matt Freestone is the founder and director of New Leaf Media, a specialist paid media agency that helps paving and landscaping companies generate more enquiries, book more appointments and secure more projects through dependable, high-performing systems.
Before launching New Leaf Media, Matt worked with major brands including Deliveroo, Universal Music Group and The Gym Group. He helped shape, refine and package social content that generated over one billion video views and contributed to growing millions of followers across multiple platforms. These results gave him a deep understanding of digital behaviour, content performance and scalable online advertising.
Matt now uses this experience to help landscapers build predictable pipelines and close more work. His focus is on creating marketing systems that speed up response times, increase booked calls and give clients a clear and measurable path to growth.
He also runs the UK Landscaping Community, one of the largest Facebook groups for landscapers in the country. Matt has spoken multiple times at FutureScape and serves as a judge for the Pro Landscaper Business Awards, where he supports the industry by sharing insight on marketing and business development.
Today, Matt continues to help landscaping businesses improve their marketing, strengthen their processes and scale with confidence.
Iain Jordan
Iain Jordan – MIM Building & Paving — Founder of UK Paving Talk Group
With nearly 20 years in the industry, I founded MIM Building & Paving, specialising in renovation work through winter and premium paving throughout the year. During more than 15 years as a member of the Marshalls Register, the company earned multiple awards for patios, driveways, and outstanding customer satisfaction.
My passion has always been high-quality paving. I developed a particular interest in porcelain paving and consistently favoured the Marshalls Drivesys system for block paving installations. Although I stepped away from the tools four years ago due to longstanding back and shoulder issues, my involvement in the paving industry has only strengthened.
Around eight years ago, I created The UK Paving Talk Group on Facebook — now the largest private, trade-only paving community in the UK with over 25,000 members. The group has become a trusted hub for installers, suppliers, and professionals to share knowledge, advice, and best practice.
Outside the industry, I enjoy mountain biking, travelling, and spending time with my family. I’m married and a proud father to a daughter.
Paul Bignall
With over 30 years of experience in the construction and landscaping industry, Paul Bignall is the founder of P B Landscapes of Melbourne, a company recognised for its quality craftsmanship and award-winning installations.
Paul began his career at just 15, working in groundwork for G F Tomlinson, before progressing to site work with major housing developers such as Jelson and William Davis, where he served as a Gangerman (Working Foreman). In 2005, spotting an opportunity within the domestic landscaping market, Paul established P B Landscapes, combining technical expertise with a passion for design-led outdoor spaces.
Since joining the Bradstone Assured network in 2011, the company has received numerous industry accolades, including Installer of the Year 2023, with work featured in both the Bradstone and Pavestone national brochures.
Today, P B Landscapes operates as a family-run business, with Paul’s son Sam and wife Sandra forming part of the close-knit team delivering bespoke projects ranging from £30,000 to £200,000 across the region.
Lee Pickwell
With over 25 years of experience, Lee Pickwell represents the second generation of the Pickwell Paving legacy. Having initially worked within the commercial sector, Lee later joined the long-established family business, helping to guide its evolution into the domestic market with a focus on high-end paving and bespoke landscaping projects.
Under his leadership, Pickwell Paving has earned an exceptional reputation for craftsmanship and attention to detail, achieving two RHS Silver Gilt Medals and multiple accolades from Marshalls, including awards for Best Craftsmanship. The company’s exemplary work has also been showcased in both Marshalls and Tobermore national brochures, highlighting the quality and consistency of their installations.
Following the recent retirement of his father, Charles Pickwell, who first founded the business, Lee now works closely alongside his son Josh, continuing the family’s proud tradition within the paving industry. Together, they uphold more than 50 years of family expertise, delivering projects that blend technical precision with timeless design.
Craig Nestor
With over twenty years of experience in the landscaping industry, Craig’s career reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation. His work has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards, including Best Porcelain Patio Overall (Bradstone, 2020), the HTA Benevolent Fund Award (2020), and the Matthew Bradley Cup (2022). He has also achieved multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze accolades from the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), as well as a Pro Landscaper Business Award in the Under £2 Million Turnover category.
Further honours include a Highly Commended Bradstone Installer of the Year award and Best Patio Transformation (both in 2020), alongside earlier recognition for Project Value £35,000–£60,000 (2018).
Craig’s expertise extends beyond domestic and commercial projects. He was part of the build team for a Gold Medal-winning show garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (2016) and has contributed to several other award-winning RHS gardens in subsequent years.
Driven by an enduring passion for transforming outdoor spaces, Craig continues to champion quality, integrity, and craftsmanship within the landscaping profession—creating gardens that enhance both the environment and the lives of those who enjoy them.
Darren Hide
Mark Gregory
Mark Gregory, a Yorkshire man, is a horticulturally trained landscaper based in the South of England. He is the Managing Director of Landform Consultants Limited, based in Surrey, who specialise in the design, construction and maintenance of high-end properties.
Widely regarded as one of the premier landscape companies in the country, Landform has won every major accolade for its work, many several times over. Mark is renowned for his knowledge and experience, especially in design and technical understanding.
He lectures widely in the UK and overseas, and is totally immersed in the landscaping industry. Voted by his peers as the most influential person within the landscaping industry in 2018 and 2021.
He is on the board of the British Association of Landscape Industries, past Chairman of The Association of Professional Landscapers for a record five years, Ambassador to The Royal Horticulture Society, and long-standing RHS Show Gardens assessor and judge.
He has built over 185 gardens for RHS Shows, 115 at Chelsea. He has personally designed seven Chelsea gardens, winning five Golds, one People’s Choice and two Best Construction.
Mark holds the RHS Pearson Memorial medal for services to horticulture, and is an RHS Associate of Honour. He is also the Industry Ambassador to Perennial Charity, which he keenly supports.
Having personally known Mark for almost forty years, I can confirm he is an outstanding ambassador for Design and Build Landscaping in the UK, majoring in hard construction techniques and use of materials in landscape projects, both commercial and domestic.
Ajay Adla
Ajay Adla, co-founder and Managing Director of Paving Stones Direct, brings nearly 20 years of industry experience to the role. With a background spanning sales, customer service, material sourcing, and yard operations, Ajay combines hands-on knowledge with a passion for transforming outdoor spaces.
Motivated by a desire to offer high-quality paving solutions directly to customers, he co-founded Paving Stones Direct with a focus on exceptional service and product standards. Ajay takes pride in building long-term relationships, ensuring that each customer experience goes beyond a single transaction.
Under his leadership, the company emphasises careful sourcing, rigorous manufacturing, and reliable delivery. Ajay believes that listening to customer feedback and consistently meeting demand is the key to long-term success in the landscaping industry.
Thomas Raisbeck
Thomas Raisbeck, co-founder and Managing Director of Paving Stones Direct, brings over 25 years of experience in the paving and landscaping industry. Starting out as a bricklayer’s apprentice, Tom gained practical, on-site knowledge early on before moving into a national paving supplier role, where he progressed to Business Development Manager. There, he developed expertise in supplier relations, product development, and international operations.
In 2014, driven by a shared passion for landscaping, Tom co-founded Paving Stones Direct. He now oversees the distribution centre, manages supplier relationships, and ensures product quality from source to delivery. He takes great pride in seeing customer projects come to life—especially when they feature products he helped bring to market.
Outside of work, Tom’s love of travel continues to inspire fresh ideas and fuel the business’s ongoing growth.
Jon Taylor
Jon Taylor is a highly respected figure in the landscaping industry, with nearly 30 years of experience to his name. For 21 of those years, he worked as a foreman at a paving and driveways company before launching his own venture in 2017—driven by a desire to balance his passion for the craft with more time for family.
Since then, Jon has built a business known for its creative, high-quality driveway and patio installations, working closely with Brett Landscaping and their premium products. His ability to combine imagination with precision has earned his team 25 national awards and recognition as Brett Premier Installers. In 2023, they were named Brett National Contractors of the Year.
A strong presence on social media has played a key role in Jon’s journey, with nearly 750,000 followers across platforms. His work continues to speak for itself, with 99% of projects coming from recommendations—mostly within just four miles of home. Jon is also a proud brand ambassador for DeWalt, reflecting his commitment to using and promoting the very best tools in the trade.
Darren Plumridge
Darren Plumridge began his paving career at just 15, stepping into an apprenticeship with one of the UK’s leading contractors. His early years were spent on landmark projects including Trafalgar Square, The Barbican, and the Houses of Parliament, where he mastered traditional techniques like wet-lay Hawkins Tiles and Yorkstone flags.
It was during this time that Darren developed a passion for residential work—drawn to the appreciation from homeowners and the satisfaction of transforming properties. What started as weekend jobs soon turned into a thriving business. In 1992, he launched his own company and never looked back.
Today, Darren and his wife Jackie employ 12 full-time staff and consistently operate with a 16–18 month lead time. They’ve earned multiple awards over the years and now work alongside their youngest son Louie, who is set to carry the business forward. Darren’s advice to young tradespeople? “Don’t wait for opportunities—make them. You’re a long time dead.”
Matt Bettison
Matt graduated in 2005 from the University of Gloucestershire with a BA (Hons) in Landscape Design with Garden Design. Between 2006 and 2020, he developed and ran Matt Bettison Garden Design, a successful design and build business. During this time, he gained full APL membership, delivered key projects at RHS Hampton Court.
In 2020, Matt moved into a national role as Technical Customer Service Manager with a leading paving supplier, broadening his expertise in manufacturing and aftercare. In 2025, driven by a long-standing passion for garden design, he founded Little Jardin—a new venture focused on creating thoughtful, personalised garden designs that blend creativity with practical expertise.
Sarah Hennem
My journey into landscaping began unexpectedly after redundancy, when a chance meeting with Peter Montgomery at Marshalls Plc opened a new door. That first “interview” was more comedy sketch than formal chat – I’ve never laughed so much in a first meeting! Peter became both a mentor and a lifelong friend, guiding me through 15 incredible years in the industry.
Since then, I’ve worked with Marshalls, AG, Bradstone, and now Global Stone, learning from brilliant designers, landscapers, architects, and merchants along the way – to the point I could almost build a garden blindfolded (though I wouldn’t recommend it).
In 2011, a random comment from my son sparked a passion for growing my own veg, earning me the nickname ‘Arthur Fowler’. When I finally got a garden of my own in 2014, my love for planting truly bloomed. My RHS membership (a perfect gift!) has only deepened that fascination.
Today, I see landscaping as so much more than paving – it’s about creating outdoor rooms and dream spaces. I’m lucky to play even a small part in that transformation, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who’s inspired and supported me on this journey.
Here’s to what’s next – because this industry never stops evolving.
Phil Wilcox
Phil has worked in the landscape sector since leaving school in 1979 and studied horticulture at Reaseheath College as part of his apprenticeship, studying sports turf and amenity management.
Returning to Reaseheath in 1996 to study garden design under the tutelage of Alison Evans.
In 1998 Phil decided to go it alone and set up Designscape
In the early days the company focus was on all aspects of landscaping and gardening services, however, the main focus soon became design and build landscaping.
Over the years the company has built a number of medal winning show gardens at RHS Tatton Park.
and more recently been part of the build team for 3 gardens at RHS Chelsea (John Everiss design)
Designscape has been a full member of BALI for over 19yrs and has a total of 7 National Awards.
Fergus O'Neill
Fergus O’Neill founded Dornans Paving and Landscapes in Northern Ireland in 2001, building on his family’s horticultural business, Dornans Nurseries. His passion for landscaping began early, working with plants, soil, and machinery. In 1998, while backpacking in Australia, he discovered paving, gaining hands-on experience on large commercial projects ahead of the 2000 Olympics.
Returning home, Fergus combined his horticultural expertise with paving skills to establish Dornans Paving. Initially focused on residential projects, the company expanded into commercial paving during the 2008 recession. Dornans became the only Irish company accepted into Interlay, the trade association for block paving, after rigorous site inspections.
Despite success in commercial work, Fergus’s passion remains in private residential projects. For over 14 years, Dornans Paving has specialised in designing and constructing bespoke outdoor spaces, handling all aspects of hard and soft landscaping.
Accreditations
- Tobermore Accredited Installer (2003 – present)
- Acheson Glover Accredited Installer (2005 – present)
- Interlay Member (2009 – 2021, until the association ceased operations)
Jason Clarke
Jason Clarke is a highly experienced paving and groundwork specialist, proudly continuing a family trade spanning over 95 years. With over 40 years in the industry, Jason remains as passionate and driven as he was when he set out to make paving not just functional but visually striking.
Jason’s career has been marked by exceptional support from clients, suppliers, and manufacturers, including Marshalls Paving, a market leader that recognized his talent in 2002. This partnership led to numerous regional and national awards, the design and construction of a show garden at the RHS Tatton Flower Show (earning a Silver Gilt medal), and features in leading garden and home publications. Jason’s proudest achievement is his longstanding collaboration with Marshalls, with over 20 years of brochure appearances, 11 front covers, and roles in two television commercials filmed at Pinewood Studios.
Inspired by the master artisans and unforgettable characters he encounters daily, Jason continues to push boundaries in his field. He attributes much of his success to his grandfather, John Gilbert, and uncle, Pat Gilbert—two legendary pavers who set the standard for excellence. Jason also cherishes the lifelong friendships he’s made through the NSC community.
Green Genie Landscapes
Jake and Ethan Thorne are the founders of Green Genie Landscapes, a company renowned for innovative and contemporary garden design. With 37 years of combined experience, the dynamic brother duo is dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and creativity in every project.
Jake’s passion for landscaping began during his school years, assisting his uncle and pursuing NVQ qualifications in Horticulture. Over two decades, he mastered both the build and design aspects of landscaping, blending technical expertise with a flair for innovation. His work consistently pushes boundaries, ensuring Green Genie stays at the forefront of modern garden design.
Ethan entered the industry straight from school, completing an NVQ in Bricklaying and specializing in hard landscaping. With a love for masonry, he focuses on precision paving, walling, and blockwork, often working with materials like porcelain and limestone to create elegant, contemporary outdoor spaces.
For the past five years, Green Genie Landscapes has embodied the brothers’ shared vision of building stunning gardens that inspire. Known for their attention to detail and passion for innovation, they excel in crafting bespoke features like cladding and water installations.
Looking ahead, Jake and Ethan plan to expand their reach, from participating in garden shows to securing features in industry publications. Their mission remains clear: two brothers, one dream – creating extraordinary gardens for life.
Phil Tremayne
Phil Tremayne is General Manager of The Association of Professional Landscapers. He has over 35 years’ experience in the horticultural industry and feels blessed that he entered a career that has given him so many opportunities.
Phil’s day to day now is conducting quality assurance assessments on the APL’s members, organising events and strategy for the APL and inspiring the next generation of landscapers through its partnership with WSUK and APL Apprenticeship.
Mick Gammage
Michael ‘Mick’ Gammage is a stalwart of the industry, well known as the ‘face’ of the Facebook group UK Paving Talk since it started in 2016.
Together with Iain Jordan, Mick runs the very successful, professional, trade-only space where people in the industry can share their experiences, ask questions and support each other. With over 24,000 members, it’s a place where tradespersons can talk honestly about the challenges we face on the job, from client issues to products, techniques and materials.
Working across the North, and living in Bolton, Mick has a passion for paving, having built up his skills and knowledge over the past fifty years, starting out in the building industry, he designs as well as builds his projects.
Mick has developed his own special niche in the paving industry, as an inspiration and leader.
Steven Walley
Steven started out in the landscaping industry, working with his two brothers, Gavin and Duncan. As their business grew, they sought to diversify, and in 2005, they sourced a substantial supply of riven sandstone from India as a means of extending their business interests, which became known as London Stone.
Moving their operations to Stanwelll Moor, near to Heathrow Airport, they developed a showroom, office, yard and depot, together with a production unit for the business, which quickly outgrew the location.
By steady expansion, moving into selected areas that suited their client base, in a few short years they now have depots across the UK, including Hampshire, Kent, Surrey, Birmingham, Bristol, Altrincham, North London and Greater Manchester. A new showroom is due to open in Milton Keynes during 2025.
By expanding the range of products, whilst remaining hard-landscaping focused, they stock natural stone, porcelain, clay paving and composite decking, along with complimentary products and materials including cladding, metal garden pergolas and planters.
Central to the ethos of London Stone, was the acute attention to detail displayed by Steven and his brothers, which allowed them to stay ahead of many competitors. London Stone quickly became synonymous with quality, both of products and also services, with the company attitude of ensuring that the client always comes first.
Working closely with landscapers, designers, architects, local authorities across the industry, Steven has achieved remarkable success, and is widely regarded within the profession as a major influential industry leader.
Graham Parker
I have been working in the landscape industry for over fifty years, working mainly in the region of the Hereford/Gloucester borders.
Around four years ago, I set up the Patios & Driveways Landscaping Group with the aim of allowing landscapers the opportunity to show off their skills, at the same time as allowing the general public to ask questions and get advice. The group has now progressed to being the largest of its kind, with close to 250,000 members. We have nearly all of the major suppliers promoting their products.
My aim is to continue development of the site, with the help of Dan Cloke and a wonderful band of moderators and to show off the best of our industry.
Nelson Birch
Nelson is a South West based surfacing contractor with nearly 30 years experience.
Descending from a long line of civil contractors, it’s safe to say surfacing is in his blood!
Nelson was one of the UK’s early adopters of resin based surfacing, and found his experience and knowledge of existing surfacing materials transferred well to resin based surfacing.
He not only runs a successful company that’s held in high regard, but also undertakes technical consultancy and product development for some of the UK’s largest Resin manufacturer’s and associated Tool suppliers.
J A Dodds
J A Dodds Landscapes brings over 25 years of expertise to every project. We are dedicated to delivering a professional service and exceptional workmanship. Our comprehensive landscaping services include patios, driveways, fencing, turf (including artificial options), and bricklaying.
With our extensive experience, we guide clients through the entire design process, from initial concepts to the finest details, ensuring the creation of a garden tailored to your vision. We combine your ideas with our expert advice to achieve a space that is both functional and visually stunning.
We are proud to hold accreditations from the APL, Bradstone Assured, Marshalls Registered, TrustMark, and are an approved installer for London Stone.
Craig Humphreys
Craig Humphreys began his career in the paving industry shortly after leaving school in 1987. In 1988, he joined Marley Paving, where he honed his skills in commercial block paving, working on large-scale projects that laid the foundation for his expertise.
In 1998, Craig founded Highworth Paving Services, shifting his focus to the domestic market. Over the years, he built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and a commitment to delivering high-quality results for homeowners.
In 2020, Craig was joined by his son, George, marking the start of a new chapter for Highworth Paving Services. Together, they continue to uphold the family tradition of excellence, combining decades of experience with fresh perspectives to serve their clients.
Paul Mattimore
Paul is the Director of Discover Paving & Landscaping Ltd, a company he has passionately led for over 25 years. Throughout his career, Paul has dedicated himself to mastering the art of paving and landscaping, ensuring every project is completed with precision, care, and the highest standards of craftsmanship.
Under Paul’s leadership, Discover Paving & Landscaping has earned a reputation for excellence, delivering bespoke solutions ranging from charming cottage patios to sleek and luxurious driveways. His commitment to using only the finest materials and innovative techniques ensures that each client’s vision is brought to life with unmatched quality.
Paul’s expertise and dedication have been recognised through numerous regional and national awards from Marshalls, celebrating his innovative designs and diverse craftsmanship. As accredited installers with Marshalls, Bradstone, and the Tobermore Register, Paul and his team provide customers with confidence and peace of mind, guaranteeing that every project meets the highest industry standards.
With a team of skilled tradesmen at his side, Paul continues to push boundaries in paving and landscaping, always prioritising exceptional results that reflect the unique aspirations of his clients.
Adam Vetere
Adam is a multi-award winning landscape and garden designer, who has been honed from a unique background in horticulture, graphic design, practical landscaping and business management. In 2022, he won the coveted APL Designer of the Year and has gone on to win several Supreme Awards. He is enthused by his passion for plants, pushing the boundaries of perceived design, and creating spaces which are sustainable and champion biodiversity. He is a proud member of the Society Garden & Landscape Designers (SGLD), The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) and The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), and in 2024 was nominated to the committee of the APL.
