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.