pearson-electrical

Pearson Elecrical Main Partners At Hull FC

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:44:47 GMT

Exciting news! Pearson Electrical is thrilled to share that we will be extending our support of Hull FC Academy into the 2023 season.

As the main partners of both the Academy and Reserve teams, we are proud to have our logo featured prominently on their jerseys. Hull FC is equally delighted to confirm this continued partnership with our local business. For more information, check out the full post at: https://www.hullfc.com/blog/2023/03/03/pearson-electrical-continue-academy-reserves-partnership-into-2023 .

Here to help during lockdown – in a COVID-secure way

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 10:59:02 GMT

Here at Pearson Electrical, we are classed among key services able to continue working despite the latest COVID-19 lockdown. 

We’ve worked hard, since the first lockdown last March, to establish safe working practices that enable us to continue serving our clients’ needs despite such government restrictions imposed to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. 

So, whether you have a standard electrical or motor rewind project you need tackling, or an emergency that needs dealing with immediately, we are here for you. 

Our team of highly skilled electricians and armature winders are well-versed in COVID-secure working and will observe appropriate social distancing, hand sanitisation and mask wearing in order to safeguard your business, team and customers. They will also fit in with any additional measures you might have introduced, such as temperature testing or preventative COVID testing. 

Our Managing Director, Mark Pearson, said: “We understand it’s especially important for companies to maintain productivity in these challenging times – whether they are in a critical industry such as energy generation, shipping and logistics; or one of the sectors experiencing unprecedented demand, such as pharmaceuticals, food and the manufacturer of vital goods such as personal protective equipment (PPE). 

“The last thing they can afford to happen is an electrical outage or fault that stops production – and they need to ensure that any projects already under way are delivered in a timely manner. 

“This is why we have pulled out all the stops to ensure we can continue to meet their demands without interruption, and in a safe and professional manner.” 

We’ve been working closely with our valued clients throughout the pandemic – many of which provide essential services and supplies – to help them continue operating during this challenging time, including introducing special shift systems to enable social distancing, as well as additional hygiene measures. 

Our team are skilled in all aspects of industrial and commercial electrical work, with particular specialisms in marine, renewable energy, offshore and hazardous area work. We also undertake large-scale electrical project planning and delivery, such as full warehouse or marine vessel wiring and re-wiring. 

Services we offer include: 

• End-to-end project planning and delivery 

• Custom builds of low-voltage (LV) switchboards 

• Wiring and repair of motor control centres, consoles, control panels and starters 

• Control system design, build and installation 

• Electrical testing and commissioning 

• Primary and secondary current injection 

• Portable appliance testing 

• 24-hour call-out service for urgent repairs 

• Planned and reactive maintenance 

• Motor repair and rewinding. 

If you have an urgent electrical installation or repair you need our help with, you can contact us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080 and we will aim to turn your job around to the highest quality, in the fastest possible timeframe. We can also help with mechanical motor breakdowns via our Humber Rewind armature winding sister company. 

Powerful new partnership with Solco Pyroelec

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 11:02:05 GMT

Announcing a new partnership is always a great moment of pride for our small but incredibly hard-working team, so it’s with pleasure that we can officially declare Pearson Electrical is now an accredited installer for electrical trace heating product giants, Solco Pyroelec.

This exciting development reflects our drive to stay at the cutting-edge of electrical engineering and we are very much looking forward to helping the South Korean-based company – which manufactures and supplies industrial and commercial heat tracing and leak detection systems for hazardous and non-hazardous environments – bring its high performing products to more UK and European customers.

Mark Pearson, Owner of Pearson Electrical, said: “We couldn’t be happier to have won the role of accredited installer for Solco Pyroelec. We’re very impressed with the quality of their products and the price point is so competitive that we’re able to pass on significant savings to our clients, so it’s a win-win all round.”

David Lee, Electrical Trace Heating Consultant – EMEA Region at Solco Pyroelec, said: “Our electrical trace heating products have an excellent track record and now is the right time for the company to expand further into the UK and European market.

“As a specialised manufacturer, our challenge is to transfer high quality products to high quality installed solutions for customers, hence our engagement with added value industrial installer partners.

“Pearson Electrical is the perfect partner for this task. The team already operate across Europe, and have built a formidable reputation for unrivalled skill, knowledge, and delivery. We provide all the necessary training to our installers, who operate in a vast array of different sectors and marketplaces that require ETH products.”

Training programme

So far, four members of the Pearson Electrical team have completed the Solco Pyroelec training programme that leads to a three-year accreditation. The training, undertaken remotely to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions, covered four main areas: an introduction to trace heating; Solco Pyroelec products and selection; basic design principles – thermal and electrical design and control; and finally installation, testing and commissioning ETH systems.

David added: “The specialist training means the Pearson team are equipped with the right knowledge and skills to ensure our products are installed in the best way possible, so their work will be reliable and the ETH systems will need very little maintenance.

“Mark knows his market and is diligent about ensuring things are done correctly, which is important to us. In developing an accredited installer network, working with a limited number of partners of the same calibre as Pearson Electrical, we can ensure that the total installed ETH system is of high quality and provides reliability in service to the customers.”

Mark added: “This is a really positive business development for us. Not only does it give us another offering for our customers, it shows we have the backing of a major company and confirms that we are a long-term player with the capability to stay ahead of the technology curve.

“We have a lot of experience working with large chemical plants and oil refineries and plan to use Solco Pyroelec’s electrical trace heating products on a number of existing and new projects.”

Quality products

Solco Pyroelec launched its UK operation in 2015, and focuses on two main ETH supply lines – hazardous and non-hazardous industrial markets; and building services and commercial – with 10-year warranties on its industrial product range and five-year warranties on its building services range. The company covers the whole process of product design, production, testing and systematic quality management in accordance with international third party approvals. Its product range includes:

Industrial heat-tracing cables, components and controls
Ex leak detection cable systems
Ex heating jackets for gas cylinders
Temperature control and monitoring devices
Processing technology of conductive polymer composites
Extrusion and injection mould processing of polymers
Design, manufacturing and approval of Ex products

For more information about Solco Pyroelec, visit https://www.solcopyroelec.co.uk/

If you have a project that requires electrical trace heating systems, get in touch with us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080. 

Revolutionary product protects vessels from electrolysis

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 10:55:11 GMT

Any owner of a sea-going vessel will know about the potential perils of metal corrosion and the various means of keeping it at bay, but we have some excellent news for such owners wishing to prevent electrolysis – we are now the UK’s only approved installer for the revolutionary SeaBis system!

Designed by international surveyor Glen Bishop, who has racked up more than 55 years of experience and knowledge in corrosion prevention, including nine years at sea, this game-changing product is working wonders around the world.

Unique device

Electrolysis can be hugely damaging. If electric currents leave the boat as tiny earth leakages then enter the hull, engine or any metal parts, the steel will rot. The unobtrusive 8inch by 4inch SeaBis unit is a unique device that detects and warns of stray electric currents (which are the root cause of all electrolysis) allowing the owner – or electrical engineering experts such as the Pearson team – to diagnose and repair any faults before the hull or engine is affected.

Mark Pearson, Managing Director of Pearson Electrical, said: “SeaBis is an absolutely amazing product, it’s the only system around capable of detecting the stray currents which can cause electrolysis.

“We are thrilled to be approved as SeaBis installers. Having used it ourselves to diagnose problems we know how incredibly effective it is, and how quick and simple it is to use. We literally liked it so much we contacted Glen and asked if we could sell and install it. He said yes, so now we are in a position to bring this fantastic technology to boat owners across the UK.”

Pearson Electrical is the only company in the UK with rights to install SeaBis. Vessel owners are welcome to purchase their own SeaBis unit from Pearson Electrical so they in effect have a constant early warning system on board, or alternatively they may wish to hire a unit from Pearson on an ad hoc basis.

Mark added: “We’re expecting SeaBis to be a very popular product and will ensure we always have some in stock so that we’re able to install a unit and conduct a diagnosis very quickly.

“The value for money this offers boat owners is superb. The costs of repairing a corroded vessel are significant, plus there’s the impact of downtime while the vessel is out of action. For just a few hundred pounds, you can practically eliminate these risks.”

Significant savings

SeaBis designer Glen Bishop, who lives in Australia, said: “Ninety-seven per cent of marine corrosion is caused by electrolysis, and stray current is always the cause. SeaBis offers a solution to identify, understand, then prevent the cause permanently, saving you thousands of pounds.

“I was pleased to hear from Mark at Pearson about the success he’d had using SeaBis, and even more delighted to appoint Pearson Electrical as an approved installer. I know the company works to extremely high standards and has a reputation for excellent customer service, so SeaBis is in safe and very capable hands with Mark and his team.”

SeaBis is guaranteed for eight years with a design life of 20 years.

If you are interested in buying or hiring a SeaBis system from Pearson Electrical, please ring 01482 225080 or email support@pearson-electrical.com

Havara sets sail for Shetland salmon farms

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 10:37:58 GMT

It's always a pleasure to blog about the work we’ve done with UK shipbuilder Parkol Marine Engineering, and the recent launch of the Havara continues their (and our!) success story.

Parkol has garnered an impressive reputation over the past 50 years for designing and building the highest quality fishing vessels, but Havara is a different kind of project as it is designed not for fishing, but for carrying feed to salmon farms in the Shetland Islands.

The 260-ton, 27m-long twin-screw feed carrier left Parkol’s Middlesbrough yard for successful sea trials, and is now out at work in the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, carrying 1.25ton bags of feed to numerous salmon farms around Shetland and the west coast of Scotland.

Havara’s joint owner and skipper Colin Kay, of Shetland LCL Shipping, based on the island of Whalsay, couldn’t be happier with his new vessel. He said: “The build took just over a year, and I’m really, really pleased with it. It’s the second boat I’ve commissioned from Parkol, the first was built in 2015, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”

Naturally, the coronavirus pandemic had an impact on operations, although it didn’t cause any delays, and both the Pearson and Parkol teams were able to work flexibly to ensure they adhered to COVID-secure rules.

“I couldn’t visit because of the lockdown,” Colin explained, “so all our communications were via WhatsApp and video calls. Despite this, we were still able to build a good relationship and the outcome is just fantastic.

“Overall I’ve been very impressed with the service and quality provided by both Parkol and Pearson Electrical.”

From fishing to fish feeding

Colin hails from a fishing background – his parents and brothers have all worked in the industry – but his business focuses on feeding fish rather than catching them, and he has more than 20 years of experience under his belt running three feed carriers.

“It’s seasonal work really,” he explained. “We’ll be working Havara seven days a week in summer all around the Shetlands when it’s busy, and not as frequently in winter when the fish aren’t feeding as much.

“The designer, Ian Paton, has done an excellent job. Since our last boat was built the feed bags have got bigger, from 1ton to 1.25ton, and we needed to be able to fit them in the hold. The bigger, heavier bags meant we also needed a bigger engine and crane, and we specifically wanted semi-automatic hydraulically operated hatches, which makes the crew’s job a lot easier.

“This design means we can carry more cargo, and are generally quicker and more efficient with our deliveries.”

Colin runs a five-man crew, with three on board for each sailing, and Havara is fully fitted out with five cabins and top end finishing touches. “The quality of the finish is superb, my crew are all very happy,” he added, “I’m expecting Havara will last me for the rest of my working days.

“We weren’t able to have the usual launch party with all the family gathered round due to the pandemic, but perhaps we’ll do something to mark Havara’s launch in a few months’ time.”

Professional approach

Mark Pearson, Managing Director of Pearson Electrical, said: “We were commissioned to undertake a full electrical installation for Havara. During the lockdown we’ve made it a priority to keeping our clients’ projects moving, while maintaining the safety of everyone involved and adhering to government guidelines

“Working in tandem with Parkol, we were able to ensure our crews working on electrical installations could continue to operate while keeping a safe distance. This meant we could all still work to our usual high standards we always produce. The pandemic may have caused us to change some of our ways of working but it hasn’t slowed us down.”

Parkol Project Manager and Director Sally Atkinson said: “We wish Colin and Havara the best of luck for the future. It was an interesting challenge for us to design and build a bespoke feed carrier, and we’re all delighted to hear Colin is so pleased with its performance.

“As always, it was a pleasure to work with Pearson Electrical, who were able to continue to deliver their excellent service despite the challenges of the COVID-19 lockdown.”

Havara statistics

Length Overall 27.00m

Length Registered 23.95m

Length BP 24.25m

Breadth Moulded 9.70m

Amidships Depth Moulded 4.80m

Fuel Capacity 15,000 litres approx (2 main tanks)

Fresh Water Capacity 3,000 litres approx Water Ballast 11 tanks

Maximum Summer Deadweight 350 tonnes approx (assuming 1.00 metre freeboard being accepted.)

Operating Speed 9 knots

Compliment 5 crew

Two off main engines for propulsion: Model – Cummins KTA19-M3 447kw@1800rpm

If you would like our help with an industrial electrical project or problem, don’t hesitate to contact us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080. 

Photos courtesy of Mike Upton

Community group offers lockdown lifeline on estate

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 10:33:49 GMT

Families living in Hull’s Boothferry Estate are surviving lockdown with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers behind the popular HU4 Community Network Group.

The grass-roots organisation has provided a host of socially distanced outdoor activities for estate residents throughout the spring and summer, and is now appealing for food and goods to create emergency parcels for hard-hit local people.

Led by Dawn and Terry Sullivan, the group are also fundraising to create an official multipurpose centre based at the estate’s Dragon Park, and we are proud to say that one stalwart member of the HU4 team is our very own electrician Arthur Smith!

Passionate support

67-year-old Arthur Smith, who has worked with us for the past nine years, said: “I’ve lived on the estate since I was 15, and got involved with HU4 at the beginning of this year after seeing something on Facebook about a residents meeting. I decided to go along, and haven’t looked back. Since then, I’ve helped out with all sorts of things, such as building a composter.

“It’s had a massive impact on residents, lots of people come to HU4 for help with various problems, and the summer craft sessions for kids were a godsend for families. This is just the beginning though, we desperately need a proper hub and things will really take off once we get one.

“I’ve been really inspired by Dawn and Terry, the work they do is brilliant and I love being a part of it, it’s so rewarding to be able to give something back to the community.”

Since the group’s inception in summer 2019, a variety of popular outdoor activities have taken place at the park, but Dawn is determined to provide a building to host indoor activities for local residents and is canvassing support from Hull City Council as well as members of the public to make her vision a reality.

“Other Hull estates have community centres, but not Boothferry,” said Dawn. “We know from the research we’ve done and also the feedback from the hundreds of people who use HU4 that the demand is there. Our aim is to establish a unit that’s accessible all week, offering a range of activities and support for residents of all ages, from babies to the elderly.”

Despite relying purely on funds and donations from generous members of the public, the group has managed to bring the community together outdoors during the COVID-19 pandemic with a book club and craft sessions, and creation of a ‘wish tree’, flowerbeds, and communal vegetable patch.

HU4 are now focusing on assembling and delivering food, clothing and essentials parcels for residents in need, and would welcome donations of goods including food, clothes, toiletries and sanitary products.

Pearson Electrical has so far supported Arthur by allowing him to use workshop for machining various parts for Dragon Park, and generous colleagues have donated clothing and food.

Arthur added: “Being able to use the Pearson Electric workshop is fantastic, all my workmates are really supportive, as is the boss Mark.”

Managing Director Mark Pearson said: “I’ve been really impressed by Arthur’s dedication to the HU4 community group and he’s inspired me to look at ways we could potentially support the group in future.”

Fighting their corner

One beneficiary of HU4’s good work is 32-year-old Kirsty Bayles, from Bethune Avenue. With two teenagers and a baby born just weeks before lockdown, Kirsty and her partner had their hands full and were also dealing with a problem neighbour.

“We received a leaflet through the door about HU4, and so I contacted them via Facebook to ask advice on what to do about my issue,” Kirsty explained. “Dawn was brilliant. She offered to raise it with the local PCSO and set everything up so all I had to do was wait for a phone call.

“She invited me along to the park for a socially distanced chat and since then I’ve been involved in the group, both in using its services and also helping out where I can.”

Kirsty’s children had barely left the house but once lockdown restrictions were eased, they took full advantage of the activities HU4 provided at Dragon Park. She said: “My daughter is deaf, and had become quite withdrawn. The craft sessions were fantastic, they really brought her back out of her shell, she became happy and chatty again.”

Kirsty is fully supportive of the HU4 campaign for a community hub. “There are no facilities on this estate, we desperately need something. Some elderly residents hardly ever leave their homes, even just having somewhere for a coffee morning would help,” she added.

“For me, it would be great to be able to just walk somewhere nearby to have my baby weighed, or go to a baby and toddler group in the future when the pandemic is over, instead of having to drive somewhere.

Some people who live here have to rely on public transport or taxis to get around, having at least a few facilities on our doorstep would make an enormous difference.

“The work Dawn and the team are doing is fantastic, they are fighting our corner and they’ve got the whole estate backing them.”

Anyone who would like to support the HU4 community group in any way or access its services should ring or message 07830 243199.

Delighted to net two leading industry accreditations

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 09:23:43 GMT

Pearson Electrical has successfully gained the much-sought-after ISO 9001 quality standard. 

Not only that, but we have also transitioned from the OSHAS (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) 18001 health and safety rating, to the newer ISO 45001 standard, demonstrating the highest possible standards in safe working practices. 

Gaining two ISO certifications underlines our commitment to being the best we can be. Both of these new accreditations are set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and are recognised worldwide, which mean they are great news for the ongoing growth of Pearson Electrical, which includes projects abroad. 

To achieve both seals of approval, we had to go through rigorous assessment processes and demonstrate effective systems and processes across our businesses. 

About ISO 9001 

ISO 9001 centres on a strict quality management system (QMS) that firms must adhere to in order to demonstrate operational excellence, and provide products and services that meet the expectations of their customers and regulators. 

In order to achieve the ISO 9001 standard, we had to provide evidence of effective relationship management among all our stakeholders; of being customer-focused and maintaining good levels of satisfaction; of providing adequate instruction and training to our employees; of engaging effectively with members of our team; of implementing and following proper processes and procedures, and of striving to continually improve what we do and how we do it, including ensuring cost-effectiveness. We also had to prove that our businesses have effective leadership. 

About ISO 45001 

Netting ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management certification made this a double whammy. 

To achieve this new standard, which replaces our former OSHAS 18001 certification, which was issued by the British Standards Institute, we had to show that we operate an effective occupational health and safety management system to protect our people and customers, and demonstrate overall business excellence and resilience. 

Introduced in March 2018, ISO 45001 also required us to demonstrate that we undertake proactive risk prevention and continuous improvement; that we operate responsibly and strictly comply with regulations relating to health and safety, to help prevent employee injuries, ill health or even death. By contrast, OSHAS 18001 set out the minimum requirements for an occupational health and safety programme. 

To attain ISO 45001, we had to demonstrate that health and safety principles are part of our company ethos and processes at all levels, so that we proactively spot and rule out issues that could result in harm through effective risk assessments and audits. We also had to show that our management team take ownership and ensure health and safety is prioritised within the business, creating a culture where everyone who works here focuses on working safely and protecting their colleagues. 

  A word from Mark 

Our Managing Director, Mark Pearson, said: “Being at the cutting edge of our profession has always been vitally important to us at Pearson Electrical, and obtaining and maintaining the highest possible levels of accreditation is one of the ways in which we do that. 

“This is why we set our sights on achieving ISO9001 and ISO 45001. We’re delighted that we’ve done so and are committed to retaining them for many years to come. 

“This success is as a real credit to all our employees, too, who’ve really got behind what we wanted to achieve and commit to the highest possible quality in everything they do.” 

Having these two leading accreditations means that you can have a high degree of confidence in all the work we do, even that involving high-risk environments. If you have a project that requires the utmost expertise and reliability, get in touch with us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080 

Yorkshire businesses work together to launch new trawler

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 09:29:37 GMT

This year, we have faced some enormous challenges due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, with wellbeing being paramount to how we manage our operations. 

 The good news is we have taken a flexible approach to our ways of working and still been able to deliver what our customers need, when they need it, even surpassing their expectations. 

 And this has been the case with a full electrical installation we undertook on a Parkol Marine Engineering project – the build of their latest trawler, Reliance III, which was recently launched from the harbourside at the leading boatbuilder’s Whitby base. 

Shared values 

We have a long history of working with this highly reputable company and share common values of providing excellence in design, workmanship and customer service. 

Mark Pearson, Managing Director of Pearson Electrical, said: “Throughout the pandemic we’ve worked hard with our clients to find proactive solutions to keeping their build and installation projects moving, while maintaining the safety of everyone involved and adhering to government guidelines. 

 “In this case with Parkol, we introduced a 3pm to midnight shift system to ensure our crews working on electrical installations at the Whitby yard could continue to operate while keeping a safe distance. 

“This flexible solution meant the project was still delivered on time to the same high standards we always produce. The pandemic may have caused us to change some of our ways of working but it hasn’t slowed us down.” 

Out to sea 

Following the official launch ceremony, skipper John Clark, of Aberdeenshire, was set to test Reliance III in sea trials before putting her to work off the coast of Scotland, netting prawn and whitefish. 

The twin-rig trawler Reliance III replaces the 11-year-old Reliance II, also built by Parkol, and skipper John was delighted with the results. He said: “I asked the architect Ian Paton to do the impossible – design a boat that has better seakeeping capabilities than Reliance II, that has to be kept below 16.49m registered length, yet act on water like a much bigger vessel, and deliver a safe working platform for the crew when at sea. 

“Reliance III is a completely unique design, it’s taken just over a year to build. It’s been a challenging time with the coronavirus, but the yard has worked through it and built a fabulous boat, it’s a credit to the whole workforce.” 

Focus on safety 

John added: “It’s been built more or less for crew safety and crew welfare, it’s a lot better fitted out inside than the old one was. The crew accommodation is a lot grander, and they’ve built into the boat safety handrails that the crew can clip themselves onto. All over the top deck and bottom deck we’ve got conveyer systems, to look after the fish and clear the catch.” 

Parkol Project Manager and Director Sally Atkinson said: “We pulled out all the stops to ensure we would deliver Reliance III on time. It was a pleasure as always to work with Pearson Electrical, who never fail to impress with their quality and attitude, and lovely to hear such positive feedback from John. We wish him and Reliance III the best of success for the future.” 

  The statistics 

 The fully shelterdecked Reliance III has a registered length of 16.49m and 7.7m of beam. 

The centreline machinery consists of a Mitsubishi S6R2 main engine (480kW @ 1350rpm), a Reintjes 7.476:1 reduction gearbox and a four-bladed 2,500mm-diameter propeller. Mitsubishi 6D24TC and 6D16 auxiliary engines will run the vessel’s main hydraulic and electric systems. 

The twin-rigged trawler will be used for catching groundfish, monkfish, megrim, lemon sole, ling, prawns, haddock, cod, and whiting. It will fish in different areas all over Scotland, right up to the west coast, out to Rockall, the west of Shetland, east of Shetland, out of Mallaig, Ullapool, Scrabster, Fraserburgh, and Peterhead, then back to John’s home town of Macduff and Banff. 

If you would like our help with an industrial electrical project or problem, don’t hesitate to contact us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080. 

Exciting new relationship with AHS

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 09:12:48 GMT

We've been delighted to welcome AHS on board as a new client of Pearson Electrical – a likeminded business striving, as we are, to continue servicing clients and their end customers despite the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

The UK-based company supplied its state-of-the-art low ignition system air handling units for installation at the huge distribution centre of a major international online retailer near Magdeburg in Germany. The project required a contractor certified for working in explosive atmospheres (or ATEX rated) to complete a wiring project on the site’s air flow system because the area involved is used for storing aerosol products prior to them being dispatched. This impressive site comprises a three-level warehouse with pick towers, alongside office and welfare facilities catering for the 1,450 employees working there.

We were approached and, needless to say, were only too happy to help! We’ve now worked on four installations of AHS units and are looking forward to partnering up on more projects in the near future.

Specialist work

Jared Gray, Technical Director at AHS, said: “This is a highly specialist job involving explosive atmosphere wiring, and we were fortunate to find Pearson Electrical as not many companies have the required credentials or experience.

“We were really impressed by the Pearson team’s fast response, and the professionalism of the work done. Speed and flexibility were key drivers for us, and Pearson delivered on all counts.”

Mark Pearson, Owner of Pearson Electrical, said: “It’s our pleasure to work alongside a company that shares our commitment to the highest quality of work and professionalism. AHS supplies a range of air handling units primarily in the UK and is one of just a few such manufacturers based here, although some of its cutting-edge systems have travelled as far as New Zealand.

“Being NICEIC certified for ATEX work is something we are proud of at Pearson Electrical. It takes considerable investment in training to ensure our team remain up to date with this accreditation, but it’s rewarding work and means we can offer this scarce service to companies like AHS on some really exciting projects.”

As a smaller company, Pearson Electrical has the advantage of being able to respond very quickly to requests for this kind of work. “Bigger companies often have complex procurement systems to work through, which can take months,” Mark added. “Whereas I’m able to manage this process so efficiently that we are able to turn it around within a week.”

Great relationships at our core

We’d like to say a huge thank you to our clients, who are working proactively with us throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to help ensure the most positive outcome possible for our network of companies, staff and clients. It’s at time like these that the strong and positive relationships we are committed to building really come to the fore, and it’s by working together collaboratively in this way that we’ll thrive through the other side of this crisis.

How we can help your organisation

Our specific services include custom builds of LV switchboards, motor control centres, consoles, control panels and starters; control system design, build and installation; electrical testing and commissioning; primary and secondary current injection; portable appliance testing; 24-hour repair service and planned and reactive maintenance.

If you have an urgent electrical installation or repair you need our help with, you can contact us via support@pearson-electrical.com and 01482 225080 and we will aim to turn your job around to the highest quality, in the fastest possible timeframe. We can also help with mechanical motor breakdowns via our Humber Rewind armature winding sister company.

Supporting major East Yorkshire grower’s multi-million-pound expansion

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 08:50:45 GMT

Mill Nurseries is one of our longest-standing clients and one we’ve been proud to accompany on its successful journey towards becoming one of the UK’s biggest growers. 

Our relationship began two decades ago and we are about to help them deliver their latest multi-million-pound project, to expand their greenhouse growing capacity by 25 per cent. 

The successful family business, established in 1962, is already East Yorkshire’s largest tomato grower and sixth largest in the UK, supplying over one hundred million tomatoes a year to supermarkets Cooperative, Waitrose, Morrisons and Lidl. 

The latest build project, which will add eight more acres of glasshouses to the current 24-acre capacity at its Mill Nurseries site, has been fuelled by increased Cooperative orders and is commencing later this month, with completion planned for this November. 

Pearson Electrical will be carrying out the electrical installation work required to get them up and running. 

We will be creating a detailed project plan including mapping the electrical distribution to the new greenhouses, designing and building the distribution and control panels that will power the many pieces of automated equipment including fans, heating, lighting and thermal curtains – and, of course, installing the eight acres of electrical wiring. 

Latest in a long line of innovations 

And this is not our first collaboration with this forward-thinking business, based in Keyingham. 

Three years ago, we helped to install three new combined heat and power (CHP) units, to help Mill Nurseries in their quest to heat their glasshouses as sustainably as possible. These replaced 10 old and tired 1.5 megawatt units with the latest, most energy-efficient technology in the form of three 2.5 megawatt generators. 

“The glasshouse industry uses a lot of energy,” explained Hermanus de Lang, who owns and runs the business with his two brothers and sister, “especially for growing plants like tomatoes which have their origins in tropical climates like South America and need lots of heat. We need to keep our greenhouses at a steady 19 or 20-degree temperature, which is why we decided to install CHP units.” 

These are basically large gas-fired engines which generate enough electricity and hot water to heat the glasshouses, exporting what isn’t used to the National Grid. 

Not only that, but the flue gases they generate, which would otherwise go off into the atmosphere, adding to CO2 emissions, are diverted back into the greenhouses to again help their plants thrive. 

For this project, Pearson Electrical worked alongside the manufacturers to install the state-of-the-art equipment for the three new generators. We also disconnected and removed the old units and re-routed and connected the necessary 11 kilovolt cabling. In addition, we had to modify the monitoring and control system that supports the equipment and notifies the Mill Nurseries team of the status of the CHP generators. 

The CHP unit provides around 50 per cent of Mill Nurseries’ heating needs, and they take their other 50 per cent from a straw-fired biomass boiler which they installed around six years ago. This uses waste wheat straw from local farmers to create a completely renewable form of energy for their greenhouses. We were also entrusted with the full installation of this relatively new technology, including control systems and cabling. 

Looking after the environment 

Growing is a competitive game in a world where food production is having to keep pace with an ever-increasing population, and Mill Nurseries, which now employs over 100 people, have had to strive to stay one step ahead throughout their half a century-plus in operation. 

Mill Nurseries’ water, too, comes from sustainable sources. “We collect all of our rainwater run-offs from the roofs of our greenhouses, and this all goes into a 12 million-gallon reservoir we built on site, which makes us around three-quarters self-sufficient for our water,” said Hermanus. 

They were the first UK tomato growers, in the early 2000s, to install fully automatic thermal screen covers in their greenhouses, designed to reduce their heat input requirements by 25 per cent during the winter months with the added benefit of creating a better summer glasshouse environment through the shading effect of the screens. 

The sheets of glass in the roofs of the new greenhouses will be significantly bigger, further minimising light obstruction and shadow from the aluminium bars used to contain them, for optimum growing efficiency. 

And their sustainable growing methods also include adopting endangered bumblebees to propagate the thousands of tomato plants which stretch as far as the eye can see within their vast greenhouses. 

Pest control is also done organically. “Tomatoes, like other crops, can be prey to a variety of pests, like whiteflies and leaf miners. An entomologist visits us every week during the eight-month long harvesting season to advise and provide insects like spiders to help target the pests where needs be,” added Hermanus. 

A rich heritage 

Hermanus’ father Gerrit set up Mill Nurseries on a smaller plot across the road from where it is now, after migrating to the UK from Holland in the 1950s. He started off growing lettuces, chrysanthemums and tomatoes in the soil. 

“Ironically, given that’s where our dad hailed from, we keep a close eye on what’s coming out of Holland, which is seen very much as the centre of horticulture around the world,” added Hermanus. 

“That’s where a lot of the latest innovations in growing stem from, including environmental control sensors to maximise the potential of every plant. 

“Dad was a first-generation grower but spotted an opportunity to do in the UK what had been done in Holland for many years. He arrived in the UK with nothing in his pockets, no possessions or even a suitcase and not even able to speak the language. 

“He started to build the business through sheer grit and determination, and just not being prepared to take ‘no’ for an answer. We’re extremely proud of what he achieved.” 

Throughout the past 20 years, as well as working on Mill Nurseries’ new installations, we have looked after the certification and periodic testing of all their electrical equipment, as well as being on hand to deal with any unanticipated problems. 

“While we have the ability to manually control our systems, they spend most of their lives on auto,” explained Hermanus. 

“Everything has to be fully optimised, well planned and fail-safe because the slightest glitch can result in thousands of plants being potentially ruined. 

“Owner Mark Pearson and his team have shared our journey so far with us. I’ve always found him and his Pearson Electrical company to be very supportive of our needs and very responsive whenever we have a breakdown, providing a level of capability and service we can trust. 

“They offer a depth of knowledge and expertise which is head and shoulders above other electrical companies, giving us utter confidence every step of the way.” 

Mark Pearson, owner of Pearson Electrical, said: “The care and attention that has gone into this project from everyone involved is outstanding. The site looks phenomenal – these greenhouses stand at 7.5m high, making them the tallest in the country.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with Mill Nurseries and accompany them on their successful journey towards becoming one of the UK’s biggest growers.” 

If you would like our help with an industrial electrical project or problem, don’t hesitate to contact us via info@pearson-electrical.com or (01482) 225080. 

Getting new Northern Divers vessel ship-shape

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 12:37:25 GMT

For more than 40 years, Northern Divers (ENG) Ltd operated out of a majestic building overlooking the River Hull, not far from what has now become one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, The Deep. 

In 2010 the company moved to new premises on the Sutton Fields industrial estate but although their surroundings were new, the heritage and vast experience of the marine specialists remained. And their reputation as one of Europe's most well-known and respected underwater civil engineering and commercial diving companies has continued to grow. 

Managing Director John Sparrowe joined what was his father’s business as a young man and has developed it into a world-class company covering underwater civil engineering, commercial diving, inland and coastal work, harbour and dock maintenance, salvage, sluice/gate maintenance structural inspections and repairs, windfarm operations, hydrographical surveys, bridge inspections and pipeline installations, to name but a few of their services. As the company’s website proclaims, they go well beyond the provision of men in diving suits. 

Hence why we were honoured when Northern Divers asked us if we could take care of the wiring for their new work boat, the MV Anne-Marie. 

A high-stakes game 

Wiring a boat with such a specialist job to do – in often hazardous situations – requires particular attention to detail. Not only does the vessel need to work effectively, it must also keep the divers using it safe. Pearson Electrical MD Mark Pearson describes just what that entails. 

“Essentially, we re-wired the MV Anne-Marie to bring it into line with work boat regulations, rather than the pleasure boat standards it reflected previously. We also installed back-up systems for life support and communications, for maximum safety,” he said.

“Because the divers using the boat have to work in potentially hazardous situations, we have to make sure that if the main electrical system fails there’s a secondary one that can take over. For example, if the divers are in the water, we need to ensure the crew can get them back into a safe situation, so that they can attend to the vessel.” 

And, in these days of stringent regulation, being able to evidence the quality of such work is also key. 

He added: “We document all of our work under our ISO9001 accreditation. We create a paper trail for protection and traceability if there are ever any problems, providing commercial shipping operators like Northern Divers with extra peace of mind.” 

Built for the job 

The 14-metre long MV Anne-Marie dive vessel has been designed specifically for Northern Divers for a multitude of commercial uses in environments where reliability, safety and minimal maintenance are paramount. Its incredible strength makes it virtually indestructible and unsinkable, and the ideal solution for river and sea working environments, where a stable and reliable working platform is essential. 

“This vessel is a crucial part of our kit so it’s important that the electrics are absolutely spot on,” said John. “I had seen some work the Pearson Electrical team were doing on a vessel for another marine company and was really impressed with them. 

“The quality of their workmanship was clear, they are well qualified and highly professional, and I knew they were the right people to wire my boat.” 

John added: “It’s the first time I’ve worked with the Pearson team but it won’t be the last. Electrical safety is so important as, done wrong, it can be a serious fire risk. I know we’re in safe hands with Pearson.” 

Once launched, the MV Anne-Marie will be put to work on the River Humber, helping to keep the waters clear and minimise the flood risk to the city, and she will also be venturing out on sea inspections around the burgeoning North Sea wind farms. 

Performing delicate operations 

The revamped MV Anne-Marie is likely to have a rich and varied time in commission, as John and his team never know from one day to the next what kind of job they will be called out to. One particularly poignant example that stands out in his memory was a very sombre experience in the English Channel. 

“A large salvage company, Titan, requested our help back in 2007 on a major job commissioned by Trinity House. A German World War I submarine had sunk in the river channel in April 1918, and had become a hazard to the shipping lanes due to vessels being larger and deeper drafted. We needed to move it to deeper water, but we had to be mindful that there might be ammunitions on board. We also had to be very respectful of the fact that this was in effect a war grave, as 23 German men had perished on board the U-boat when she went down,” John added.  

“It took a lot of planning but the two-month long operation was a success and we managed to carefully lift and move the sub a couple of metres above the seabed for about 11 miles using a heavy crane barge.” This solemn reminder of the Great War is now resting undisturbed in deeper water within the Channel. 

Service built on reputation 

Northern Divers was founded in 1963 to provide a wide range of underwater services to the civil engineering and marine industries, public utilities and harbour authorities. The company has been involved with many national and international projects, in addition to providing inspection, repair and maintenance services to a wide range of clients including international contractors, overseas governments, local authorities, shipping and insurance companies. 

“We do a lot of work with Associated British Ports and renowned companies across the globe in marine salvage, environmental projects, shipping, pipeline construction, and wind turbine farms,” said John. They also have one of the county’s only hyperbaric chambers, for oxygen therapy treatment to aid the recovery of people with a range of health conditions, including issues with their cognitive function, as well as divers suffering from ‘the bends’ – an excess of nitrogen in the blood as a result of surfacing too quickly. 

The company, which employs 25 people, has always maintained a lead in underwater technology and is equipped with the most up-to-date diving, inspection, maintenance and repair equipment, as well as state-of-the-art corrosion protection systems, allowing all work to be carried out to the highest standards both inshore and offshore. 

“Much of our equipment is fully mobile so we are able to carry out salvage, inspection, maintenance and repair operations anywhere in the world,” John said. 

As training has always been a high priority, Northern Divers can justifiably claim to have one of the most experienced teams of underwater specialists who are technically capable of dealing with almost any underwater assignment. 

So how has a relatively small enterprise from Hull become such a global success? John believes it’s all in the quality and reliability of service: “Clients choose us because we have an excellent reputation in the marine and diving industry and can demonstrate such a wide range of experience, as well as being innovative and flexible.

“We have nevertheless remained a small, friendly and very honest company. Every job big or small presents a different challenge and we give it our best every single time.” 

A perfect partnership indeed, as the same could be said of Pearson Electrical! 

The MV Anne-Marie is a prime example of the marine, hazardous area and offshore electrical work we specialise in at Pearson Electrical. If you own or operate a boat and need advice on its state of repair, or need a vessel wiring from start to finish, you can contact us via support@pearson-electrical.com or 01482 225080.

Proud to support the superb Atlantic Marine fleet

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 12:40:28 GMT

Pearson Electrical is a truly international business – our work as marine electrical engineering specialists takes us all over the world, pretty much wherever our clients might need us. 

Atlantic Marine’s fleet of specialist ships (Atlantic Enterprise, Tonjer, Carrier, Supporter and Explorer) are available for charter in conjunction with offshore equipment hire on a crewed vessel only or vessel-plus-services charter basis. Each ship – which are class DP2 – has a unique capability to be provided to clients ‘clear decks’ or with a fully mobilised spread of specialist equipment as a full service rental/charter package. 

Specialist knowledge 

Naturally it’s very important that should a commercial vessel be out of action due to electrical issues, wherever it may be in the world at the time, it can be brought back online as quickly as possible, and that’s where Pearson Electrical’s years of expert capability and experience comes up trumps. 

Atlantic Marine Operations Manager Steve Gray said: “In a situation where we need urgent support, no matter where the ship is, it’s absolutely essential that our electrical contractor responds quickly and can complete any required repairs accurately and swiftly. 

“Pearson Electrical can be relied on to deliver on all counts, every time. They mobilise at the drop of a hat and are often on board within a matter of hours, then identify and implement the necessary work and get the vessel up and running again as soon as possible.” 

It’s important for electrical contractors such as ourselves to have a thorough knowledge of different systems, and this is one reason why our service is so versatile. Some of Atlantic Marine’s fleet were built back in the 1970s; Steve explained: “It’s not as simple as flicking a switch to get everything working again. The Pearson engineers know these ships’ switchboards like the back of their hands. They can get to the bottom of any problems thanks to this in-depth understanding – it’s an invaluable asset. It also means repairs are almost always possible, rather than replacement, which would be much more expensive.” 

We were also happy to support Atlantic Marine with enabling their fleet to become DP2 classified, which involves not just intricate electrical system work but a fair bit of paperwork too! 

Mark Pearson, Managing Director of Pearson Electrical, said: “We’ve built up an excellent working relationship with Atlantic Marine over the years, I have the utmost respect for them as a company and for the quality of service they supply. 

“We look after all their electrical maintenance, updates and conversion work. One of the larger projects we worked on was the transformation of the Enterprise from a seismic vessel to a ‘floatel’ which can transport workers out to sea as well as provide their accommodation.” 

A busy shipping forecast 

The family-owned Atlantic Marine business dates back to 1985, and it has since grown to be a highly successful operator of large offshore specialist ships for charter in the offshore renewables and oil and gas sectors. The company also has specialist asset management divisions in both super-yacht charter and private aircraft charter sectors. 

Senior Partner and Director Paul Crowther, who has more than 25 years’ experience of ship management and spends 90 per cent of his time travelling from ship to ship and meeting clients in person, explained: “The business operates all group assets for charter on a global basis. We work closely with an international group of asset managers based in Gibraltar, proving technical and commercial management, crewing and commercial services. We offer a lifetime of expertise across air and sea-based assets, and with an emphasis on 24/7 customer service and professional, technical asset management.” 

The business employs a team of more than 150 dedicated professionals and crew operating offshore ships in the specialist areas of offshore wind, subsea operations, offshore construction, survey and platform support. The company-managed vessels are all multi-role capable, with an emphasis on specialist capabilities such as offshore accommodation, subsea survey, cable lay and platform supply roles. 

Last year was an incredibly busy one for the team, with a wide range of work that included walk-to-work, UXO clearance, multibeam surveys, boulder clearance, and geotechnical surveys, and 2018 is already shaping up to be another exceptional year. 

“We’ve just completed several major winter projects and have a number in the pipeline for the summer, so it’s definitely exciting times ahead for the Atlantic Marine team,” said Paul. 

Mark added: “Atlantic Marine’s clients have a diverse range of needs and this means our work on their vessels does vary from one project to another, depending on exactly what the client wants. We assist with mobilisation and demobilisation, and make sure all electrical requirements are in perfect order each time.” 

To find out more about Atlantic Marine, visit www.atlantic-marine.co.uk , ring 01273 248800 or email info@atlantic-marine.co.uk  

To contact Pearson Electrical, ring 01482 225080 or email support@pearson-electrical.com

Here comes Summer Rose

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 12:41:17 GMT

The commissioning of a new trawler is always symbolic of much more than its physical presence on the water. 

Nine times out of 10, a boat encapsulates a family’s, and even a community’s, hopes and dreams. 

And the Summer Rose is no different. 

Named at a ceremony accompanied by a piper and led by a minister from the Mission to Seafarers, she is the latest vessel to leave the Parkol Marine Engineering yard in Whitby, and is destined for Oban in the North of Scotland. From there, she will fish for scallops off the coast of the UK. 

John MacAlister, her new owner, travelled down from the far north for the ceremony, with an array of family and friends, for a full day and night of celebrations. 

He explained that, although it is not yet clear what the outcome of the ongoing negotiations about the UK’s exit from the European Union will mean for the nation’s fishermen, the new vessel is an example of how owners like him are trying to be pragmatic. 

“We’re working in an industry which is facing great uncertainty but we can’t stand still,” said John. 

“With the Brexit negotiations about our fisheries now expected to continue until 2020, we have no clear strategy for the next four to five years, but we are trying to keep moving ahead, and investing, hence why we have commissioned this boat.” 

Expanding fleet 

The Summer Rose shares its name with the first boat John bought 41 years ago, when he joined the fishing industry straight from leaving school. 

Since then, he has expanded his fleet to 10 boats and now works onshore, as CEO of three sister fishing companies: John MacAlister (Oban) Ltd, the Star Fishing Company and the Q VARL Fishing company, all of which specialise in catching scallops around the coast of the UK, mainly for the European market. 

And it’s become very much a family affair over the past 40 years – John’s son Ian is following in his father’s footsteps and will be skippering the Summer Rose, accompanied by Ian Fletcher as relief skipper. 

The Summer Rose is the third trawler John has commissioned from Parkol, and we have taken care of the vessel’s wiring, to the very latest specs for both efficiency and safety. 

“This boat is a new design by Ian Paton,” continued John. 

“It features the first full Mitsubishi engine package to be supplied in the UK by Padmos of Holland. It’s built to the very top spec for both power and safety.” 

Busier than ever 

As a result of the optimistic approach of trawler owners like John, Parkol is experiencing one of its busiest times ever, with demand for boats doubling in the past 12 months – so much so that the company has opened a second yard in Middlesbrough. 

And we are privileged that they have asked us to help them wire and maintain this string of new vessels, which has had a similarly positive impact on our own business levels. 

Mark Pearson, Owner and MD of Pearson Electrical, said: “I’ve never seen anything quite like it in the whole of my career in the marine industry. The demand for new boats just keeps coming and coming, and is representing an increasing chunk of our overall work. 

“While there is uncertainty over the specifics of what the Brexit agreement will mean, I think the prospect of regaining some control over UK waters – coupled with unusually healthy and well-priced fish stocks and the state of the pound against other currencies – is leading to a view among the fishermen that they may as well make the most of it while it lasts.” 

Parkol services UK coastal fishing fleets from the North and Scotland, including Shetland and Orkney, right down as far as Penzance and Cornwall, both building and maintaining the boats that make up these fleets. Such is their reputation that trawler owners will travel 36 hours from the North and 60 hours up from the South, to have their boats serviced. 

As well as new boat builds and maintenance, Parkol fits custom-designed equipment that can reduce fuel costs by up to 20 per cent, and it is innovations like this that have also fuelled the company’s rapid recent growth. 

Sally Atkinson, from Parkol, said: “The Summer Rose is the third vessel that Parkol has built for John MacAlister, we have a long-standing relationship which continues to go from strength to strength. The confidence in the fishing industry and the amount of new vessels on order is unprecedented. During the Brexit negotiations and the impending transition period it is vitally important that the government provides a clear and coherent strategy inclusive of all stakeholders, that will protect and foster the fishing industry for future generations.” 

If you would like more details about how we could help with your marine or industrial electrical project, contact us on 01482 225080 or email support@pearson-electrical.com

River cruisers ready for the Christmas crowds

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 12:38:31 GMT

Earlier this year, we were delighted to announce we’d agreed a three-year maintenance contract with City Cruises York, to upgrade and maintain the five vessels in its fleet. 

The company specialises in cruises along the beautiful River Ouse in York, offering sightseeing cruises, party cruises, and private charters. 

We’re very proud to be working with companies with the kind of reputation and profile City Cruises York has, and are looking forward to supporting their ambitions to further boost their business success in the years to come. 

Feeling festive...

Many visitors to York look forward to absorbing the sights of the city via a river cruise and the experience at this time of year promises to be even more magical as Christmas lights and decorations twinkle across the water. 

Our objective is to keep the vessels in tip-top operating condition, including a full rewire of all five – the River King, River Duchess, River Palace, Captain James Cook and River Prince before the end of the winter. We’re very pleased to say that the River King is already back in action following its electrical overhaul – just in time for the company to entice the Christmas crowds onto one of the many daytime, evening and party cruises the company offers, as well as a special Santa cruise which is hugely popular with families.

The vessels are also available for private hire for small groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and hen parties – an ideal floating venue for informal celebrations, offered with or without catering. 

Mark Mattinson, Sales and Marketing Manager for City Cruises York, said: “Pearson Electrical was the obvious choice for us to do this important work on our fleet thanks to the team’s marine experience and expertise. 

“Their work so far has been outstanding. They have proved themselves to be a team of credible experts who go out of their way to do an excellent job. They have already demonstrated that they can produce top quality work to a tight deadline, and it’s good to know that our full fleet will soon be equipped with wiring that surpasses the highest standards.” 

City Cruises York in its former incarnation as YorkBoat already had an outstanding safety record, and was fully compliant with Maritime and Coastguard Agency standards for electrical components and wiring on its vessels. However, for consistency, the firm is now upgrading to comply with the more stringent standards operated by the Port of London Authority, which is the benchmark used by its new owners. 

From our perspective, safety is paramount when it comes to marine electrics and we very much respect City Cruises’ decision to work to the highest standards possible. It’s immensely satisfying for us to deliver jobs that give the client as well as their customers – in this case thousands of members of the public – complete confidence. 

Significant business growth 

The arrangement follows City Cruises’ (formerly YorkBoat) acquisition by London-based mirror company, City Cruises, which operates the biggest fleet of tourist boats on the River Thames, alongside another smaller operation in Poole, Dorset. 

City Cruises York has exciting plans to capitalise on the wider reach of its sister company to attract significantly more customers – and ultimately more visitors to York 

For us, this is one of a series of major new contracts that are contributing to our growth. Our company is increasing in size at its fastest pace ever, thanks largely to our relationship with the Green Port Hull initiative. This has provided us with access to invaluable support including help in securing unique industry-leading ISO accreditations, which has unlocked the door to some of its biggest framework agreements ever, including the RTS Wind arrangement. 

For more information about City Cruises York visit www.citycruisesyork.com or to contact Pearson Electrical ring 01482 225080 or email support@pearson-electrical.com

Sparkling future for Scottish trawler

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 16:37:19 GMT

Earlier this month, we were privileged to be part of the ‘birth’ of the Sparkling Star, the first brand new trawler Pearson Electrical has wired for Parkol Marine Engineering as part of our exciting contract with them. 

There was much ceremony about the occasion at Parkol’s Whitby shipyard. It featured the vessel’s new owner and his family, down from the north of Scotland, in full kilt regalia; a blessing by a minister from the Mission to Seafarers north of the border, and the symbolic breaking of a bottle of Champagne on the vessel’s hull by the new owner’s wife, Roma Corbett. 

And little wonder, really, when you consider how much of an icon of hope a new trawler like this actually is. 

The Sparkling Star is one of a number of vessels in the pipeline to be manufactured by Parkol in the next couple of years. Hence why they’ve commissioned us to support them with the electrical wiring, repair and maintenance of the boats. 

According to Andrew Oliver, Parkol Director and Engineering Manager, the company is experiencing unprecedented demand as the result of ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’ for the UK fisheries. 

He says that plentiful fish stocks, good market prices and post-Brexit optimism that the UK may regain at least some control of its waters as a result of the ongoing exit negotiations with Europe, are contributing to these favourable conditions. 

And this is great news for both Parkol and Pearson Electrical, as they have commissioned us to support the electrical wiring, maintenance and refitting work on a second vessel, to help them keep pace with this demand. 

In fact, Parkol is currently running at four new trawler builds per year – twice its usual number, so much so that it has opened second manufacturing base in Middlesbrough. 

The orders are coming from fishing fleets across the UK and Ireland, and this latest vessel was commissioned by the Sparkling Star Partnership, operating out of Ullapool in the north of Scotland. 

“The fishing industry is very buoyant at the moment,” said Andrew. 

“There’s really no let-up, and people are still feeling very confident and wanting to order boats. 

“While the fishing industry has had many knock-backs in the past and there is always concern that our fisheries may once again be used as a bargaining tool in Europe, we’re finding that UK trawler owners are largely optimistic about getting a good deal from the Brexit negotiations.” 

“I think they’re taking the view that it can’t get any worse than it was before, and at least Brexit is a step forward, so they are ploughing on regardless.” 

Parkol is one of only two major trawler manufacturers in the UK, and Andrew added that trawler launches like this one are always special. 

“It’s always a proud and symbolic moment when a new trawler takes to the water,” he added. “It denotes real positivity and hope.” 

A dream come true

Meanwhile, for new owner James Corbett, the Sparkling Star marks the fulfilment of a lifelong aspiration. 

The seasoned skipper has purchased the boat in partnership with Peterhead-based fish wholesale and vessel management company, Don Fishing Company. For him, this is literally a dream come true, and there was a real sense of occasion around the launch, as his extended family attended in full Scottish national dress. 

“I’m from a fishing village in the north of Scotland called Kinlochbervie and have worked on the deck and latterly as a skipper of various boats for the past 30 years,” said James. 

“Ever since I started out, I’ve dreamed of owning my own boat, and the completion of the Sparkling Star marks the culmination of all that, making my family first generation owners.” 

The Sparkling Star will now have its masts fitted over the next few weeks, ready for James to sail it north at the end of November and straight into commission, fishing for ground stocks such as monkfish off Scotland’s north-west coast. 

“The industry is really booming back home and the fish stocks are the best I’ve known since I’ve been skippering,” he added. 

Part of something special 

For Pearson Electrical, the Sparkling Star is also representative of a uniquely positive time for our company, which has seen us grow five-fold in the past three years. Parkol has commissioned us for a second trawler and we are now starting work on wiring the next vessel in the run – the Summer Rose Trawler, destined for Oban, also in the north of Scotland. 

Owner and MD Mark Pearson added: “The Sparkling Star’s launch was a fantastic occasion and a special moment for Pearson Electrical as a company. 

“It’s our privilege to be part of both a historically positive time in the UK fishing industry, and the unfolding story of Parkol, which is one of the most respected trawler manufacturers in the UK. 

“Our companies have real synergy – both in terms of our marine experience and connections, and the way we operate, as hands-on family businesses. It really is our privilege to be involved in the increased workload they’re experiencing.” 

A perfect match 

The fit between Parkol and Pearson Electrical is a very natural one, as both of our companies have built up a lifetime of experience in the marine industry. Parkol services UK coastal fishing fleets from the North and Scotland, including Shetland and Orkney, right down as far as Penzance in Cornwall. 

The company both builds and maintains the boats that make up these fleets. Such is its reputation that trawler owners will travel 36 hours from the North and 60 hours up from the South, to have their boats serviced. 

As well as new boat construction and maintenance, Parkol is known for innovation, including fitting custom-designed propulsion equipment that can reduce fuel costs by up to 20 per cent. 

The pioneering shipbuilder has been repeatedly recognised in the industry – winning ‘Fishing Vessel of the Year’ in the annual Fishing News awards for the past two years running. 

At the same time, we have built up 30 years’ specialist experience in the marine, industrial and hazardous area sectors, and the ISO accreditations we have achieved with the help of funding from the Green Port Hull growth initiative have unlocked the door to some of our biggest framework agreements ever over the past 12 months. In addition to the contract with Parkol, we have signed deals with A2SEA, which transports the wind turbines manufactured by Hull’s Siemens plant out to North Sea wind farms, and another with RTS Wind Recruitment, to support them in servicing the turbines. 

If you would like to discover more about the expertise we have to offer, get in touch with us via 01482 225080 or support@pearson-electrical.com