Ex-JCB Worker, 100, Celebrates One Millionth Backhoe Loader Milestone

Ken Harrison, a centenarian and former JCB worker, celebrated the production of the one millionth backhoe loader. He reflects on his long history with the company and its legacy.

Ex-JCB Worker, 100, Celebrates One Millionth Backhoe Loader Milestone
Ex-JCB Worker, 100, Celebrates One Millionth Backhoe Loader Milestone

Rocester: Today, Ken Harrison, a remarkable 100-year-old, was the guest of honor at JCB’s celebration. They marked the production of their one millionth backhoe loader, a huge milestone.

Ken was part of the original team that built the first backhoes. He joined JCB in 1952 when it was a small operation with just 29 workers. Can you believe he earned only four shillings and sixpence an hour?

He returned to JCB’s headquarters, where it all began, arriving in style in a fancy Jaguar. It was a big day, and he was excited to see how far the company has come.

Ken’s family has a long history with JCB. Thirteen relatives have worked there, totaling over 350 years of service. He grew up nearby, so it feels like home.

Back in the day, Ken was part of JCB’s European sales team. He spent years demonstrating machines to customers. He recalls working long hours, often being the only one in the factory on Sundays.

He fondly remembers Joe Bamford, the founder, who would check in on him. Everyone was friendly and worked together, doing various jobs. It was a different time, and Ken loved it.

His great-nephew, Ed, now works at JCB too. He feels proud to be part of the family legacy. It’s amazing how the Harrison family has contributed to JCB’s success over the years.

The first JCB backhoe rolled off the line in 1953. It was a game-changer, introducing hydraulic power to construction. Production started slow, but it picked up quickly.

Today, JCB makes backhoes in several countries and sells them worldwide. They remain one of the top-selling construction machines, proving their lasting popularity.

During the celebration, employees lined the road to watch a parade of backhoes from different eras. It was a nostalgic moment for everyone involved.

Lord Bamford, the current chairman, reflected on the company’s humble beginnings. He never imagined they would reach such heights. But he’s excited for the future and the next million backhoes.

JCB has always pushed for innovation. Their latest models are faster and more efficient, saving customers money on fuel. It’s incredible how far they’ve come.

Over the years, JCB backhoes have been in the spotlight, even inspiring a hit song. They’ve been part of some wild stories, like a failed diamond heist in 2000.

The one millionth backhoe, a 3CX model, was decorated with graffiti art. It was a fitting tribute to a remarkable journey for JCB and its dedicated workers.

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Xavier Marlega is a dedicated journalist with a knack for exploring current events and social issues, always providing meaningful insights in his work.