Every good builders merchant needs a yard legend. At our Ipswich branch, that legend is Roger.

About a year ago, Roger simply turned up. He started appearing around the yard, popping in to see the team and making himself known. At first, the team assumed he was just passing through. But Roger had other plans. He kept coming back, clearly keen to spend time inside with the Ipswich team.

The team began letting him in during the day, giving him a warm spot and some company, before gently putting him back outside at closing time. This went on for a couple of weeks until it became clear that Roger was not lost at all. He actually belonged to a neighbour who lives behind the yard. He just preferred hanging out with us. And honestly, who could blame him.

Before long, Roger was part of the furniture. The Ipswich team built him his own little house in the shop and he now even has a cat flap so he can come and go as he pleases. He has a proper bed behind the shop counter, where you will usually find him fast asleep, completely unbothered by the hustle and bustle of the day.

The team take turns feeding him outside of work hours, making sure he is well looked after. Customers ask about him. Regulars know exactly where to find him. He has become a proper member of the branch. Spoilt is an understatement.

Roger brings a bit of calm to the yard, a bit of character to the counter and a lot of smiles to customers walking through the door. He might not lift timber or load bulk bags, but he does a very important job all the same.

If you are visiting our Ipswich branch, do not forget to say hello to Roger the Yard Cat. Just do not be surprised if he ignores you in favour of another nap. Keep an eye out on our social media for Roger updates, we all love him, and he loves us.

Last week we welcomed customers to our Ipswich branch for the third annual September Sizzler, and once again it delivered everything it promised. “Free stuff, food on us, trade deals, games and prizes” all wrapped up in a brilliant late afternoon thunder storm.

From 9am through to early afternoon Colliers @ Wherstead Road was busy with trade professionals and DIY customers making the most of the day. Leading suppliers including TuffStuff Workwear, Azpects, Global Stone Paving, Brett Landscaping, OX Tools, RUBI Group and Brett Martin were on hand with displays, product advice and live demonstrations.

The Hot Sausage Company kept everyone fuelled with free hot dogs, while customers entered the prize draw to win a wood fired pizza oven and stepped up to the challenge to win their height in beer. The combination of exclusive on the day trade deals, giveaways and hands on product insight made it a valuable event for anyone planning upcoming projects.

What makes the September Sizzler special is the balance between business and community. It is a chance to catch up properly, talk through jobs, see materials up close and meet the people behind the brands. Events like this are a reminder that Collier & Catchpole is more than a builders merchant. We are part of the local trade community in Ipswich and across Suffolk and Essex.

A huge thank you to our suppliers, our team and everyone who came along to make this year’s September Sizzler such a success. If you missed it, keep an eye on our social media for event updates and join us at the next one.

A huge round of applause for our very own Steven Ward, who recently completed the gruelling Race the Sun Jurassic Coast Off Road Challenge in support of Action Medical Research.

Held on 14th June, the event marked 17 years since Steve and his teammate, known as Shadey, first took on Race the Sun back in 2008.

Returning nearly two decades later, they set themselves the challenge once again, this time raising funds for a charity dedicated to life changing research for sick and disabled children.

The course was no small task. The day began at sunrise with a 20 mile cycle, followed by a 9 mile coastal hike, a 2 mile kayak and then another 20 mile ride back to base. The goal was simple in theory but tough in practice, to complete the entire course before sunset. Steve and Shadey rose to the occasion and crossed the finish line in an impressive 8 hours and 57 minutes.

To make things even more memorable, they completed the challenge dressed as Captain America and Iron Man. Superhero costumes may have added a bit of fun, but they also added to the heat and physical demands of the day.

Not only did they conquer the course, they also raised an incredible £1,120 for Action Medical Research. The event as a whole raised more than £270,000 to help fund vital research aimed at defeating the diseases that devastate children’s lives.

Reflecting on the challenge, Steve said, “We struggled with the heat and Lycra combination to be honest but delighted to complete the event, more importantly raising invaluable funds for this special charity. I would like to thank Collier & Catchpole for their very generous donation and everybody who sponsored us.”

It is an incredible achievement and one we are extremely proud of. From everyone at Collier & Catchpole, a massive well done to you Mr Stig. You have shown that superheroes do not always wear capes, although sometimes they do.