Paul Butler, one of the first in the trade to introduce natural stone into the UK, is to hang up his boots after 30 years' service.
Paul Butler, garden industry stalwart and pioneer, is to retire following seven years service with the hard landscaping specialist, Stoneflair and more than 30 years in the sector.

Mr Butler was instrumental in setting up StoneFlair, and during his time at the company was responsible for product development and sourcing as well as producing marketing materials.

He was one of the first in the industry to introduce natural stone into the UK, and is a well known face in the gardening world, having worked at Bradstone and Stonemarket before joining StoneFlair when it was first set up in 2001.

Tom Longland, general manager of StoneFlair, said: "Paul has been a real influencer in the sector and we'll be sad to see him go. However, he really deserves to put his feet up and enjoy his retirement. We wish him all the best for the future."

Mr Butler's area will be picked up by Olly Alldritt who joined the company last year as territory sales manager.

He currently coordinates sales activity in the Midlands and the South East and will now pick up South and North Wales.