Three generations make the biscuit at Batley factory

Engineering team leader Gordon Hargreaves, 44, has been at the Wellington Street factory for 17 years after following in the footsteps of dad Raymond.

Now Gordon’s son Ashley, 16, who studies at Kirklees College, is due to start part-time work with the company after securing a place on their apprenticeship scheme. He will learn about engineering and electronics.

Father-of-three Gordon, of Rudding Drive, Carlinghow, who developed his skills with Birstall company Nelsons before going to Fox’s, said: “Ashley’s always been interested in using his hands and making things.

“I thought it would be a good opportunity to try and get into an apprenticeship.

“Every day at work is different and always a challenge. There’s that much variety of equipment that the job is never the same.”

Gordon added that the culture of family members entering the same workplace is a positive one because they ask questions uninhibited, so learn more.

Raymond, 72, joined Fox’s in 1968, but had to retire from the factory around 12 years ago after an operation which made the job more difficult. He joked to Gordon that he had to leave before his son became his boss.

But he is happy Ashley will keep the tradition going when he starts properly in January.

Ashley hopes that with hard work, he can fund his dream of becoming a pilot – something mum Joanne is not so keen on!