The RHA has led the tributes to industry stalwart Roger Cullimore, former MD and chairman of Gloucestershire’s Cullimore Group, who has passed away.
Cullimore took over the Stroud-based family business from his father Moreton in the 1960s and grew it into a major regional operation that today spans farming, transport, sand and gravel, ready-mixed concrete and HGV servicing and testing.
He had a clear sense of identity and pride in the business, from its local connections to the distinctive traditions that made it stand out, including the well-known Dickens-themed fleet and he retained a cheerful disposition and doggedness with a never say die attitude, even when times were hard.
His influence on the industry extended beyond his company; he negotiated as chairman of the Western area for the RHA during the 1978-79 ‘winter of discontent’, when widespread strikes dogged James Callaghan’s Labour party.
The lorry drivers’ strike was initiated by members of the Transport and General Workers’ Union who demanded a 40% pay rise.
The dispute lasted throughout January 1979, until Cullimore negotiated a 20% rise for drivers in the South-West – a deal that was subsequently accepted across the country.
In 2019, his contribution to the sector was recognised with a Special Recognition Award from the British Aggregates Association, which he helped to found.
In a post on social media, the RHA said of the former chairman and board member: “He will be remembered not just for what he built, but how he did it – grounded, principled, and generous with his time.
“Our sincere condolences to Moreton Cullimore, the Cullimore family, and all at Cullimore Group. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.”
