15/10/2026
50 years to the day.
Today marks an special milestone at Carpenter Box, as Debbie Burbidge retires on the very same day she celebrates 50 years with the firm, making her the longest-serving employee in Carpenter Box history.
Debbie joined Carpenter Box in 1976, when the firm had around 15 members of staff and 5 Partners. Back then, there were manual typewriters, carbon copies and handwritten tax returns. It's fair to say she has seen one or two changes since then!
Across five decades, Debbie has been a much-loved part of Carpenter Box and has contributed enormously to the firm and its culture. Anyone who has worked with Debbie will know her for her friendly nature, colourful outfits and, of course, always having a camera ready at our social events.
Managing Partner, Alan Edwards said:
"Reaching 50 years with one organisation is an extraordinary achievement, and Debbie's contribution to Carpenter Box over that time has been immense. She has been a constant presence through decades of change, always willing to help, always looking out for others and always taking pride in getting things right.
Debbie embodies the friendly, supportive culture that makes Carpenter Box such a special place to work. On behalf of everyone at Carpenter Box and across Sumer, I'd like to thank her for her dedication, commitment and friendship over the last five decades, and wish her a long, happy and well-deserved retirement."
Reaching half a century with one business is an extraordinary achievement, and for Debbie to mark that milestone on the day she begins her retirement makes today particularly special. Thank you, Debbie, for an incredible 50 years and for being such an important part of Carpenter Box’s story. From everyone at Carpenter Box, we wish you a very happy and well-deserved retirement.
Here are just a few memories from Debbie's remarkable 50 years with us.