NICK OLDRIDGE, sales and marketing director of Sandtoft Roof Tiles, has been appointed Chairman of the Clay Roof Tile Council (CRTC).

In his new role Nick will be responsible for overseeing the policy development of the Council and directing its marketing programme which highlights the benefits of clay roof tiles over other roofing materials.  He succeeds Chris Morgan, managing director of Lafarge Roofing, in the rotating chairmanship. 

Nick has extensive industry knowledge, being one of the third generation of Oldridges who have owned and managed Sandtoft since it was established in 1904. Along with his brother and sister who work as managing director and commercial director respectively, Nick is one of the key driving forces behind the industry’s largest independent roofing systems manufacturer.

Nick explains: “I welcome the opportunity to continue promoting the timeless quality of natural clay roof tiles on behalf of the CRTC members.  It’s an exciting time for the clay industry as the demand for natural products continues to increase, driven by stricter planning controls and a more discerning marketplace that is placing increasing emphasis on environmental preservation and the aesthetics of new and refurbished buildings.

“This is boosted further by a continual investment in new technology and advanced manufacturing techniques that ensure clay roof tiles manufactured by the CRTC’s member companies are fully resistant to the unpredictable British weather and pass the most rigorous NAMAS freeze/thaw tests in Europe.”

The CRTC is currently involved in various initiatives to target roofing industry professionals as well as architectural students to ensure that the specifiers of tomorrow have an in-depth understanding of the product.  Another key element of the CRTC’s promotional activity is the Clay Roofing Awards, which showcase outstanding clay roofing projects throughout the UK.