A third generation scrapman from WN Thomas Ltd.


Name: John Hopcroft

Job title: Plant & yard operative/lorry driver at WN Thomas Ltd, Slough.

Time spent in recycling: Approx. 40 years - I am the third generation of my family to work in the scrap metal industry. My home growing up backed onto the family scrap yard & I was often called on to help out along with my two brothers and sister (shown in the photo featuring ‘Tin Ribs’ – a car our Dad gave to us to play in!

What does your job involve?

Buying & weighing of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, loading & unloading customers, collection & delivery of metals. 

Playing on 'Tin Ribs'

What is the hardest part of your job? 

Sometimes not having enough hours in the day.

What three things help you to do your job better?

  • Working as a team makes my job a lot easier.
  • The plant we use is always kept up to date & any faults are rectified as soon as possible.
  • Having a boss (Peter Mills) that trusts my judgement, allows me to make decisions and respects that I have many years of experience in various recycling streams from waste paper, rag trade, ferrous & non-ferrous metals to industrial waste.
The Bedford TK S type

What are you most proud of in your career?

My Dad, Harry bought a brand new Bedford TK S type in 1965. He paid £800 for the chassis and cab and an additional £2000 for a Vapsco skip back. It was the second skip lorry to exist in England.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Always be positive, a glass is half full not half empty.

Quick fire round:

  • Out on the town or a night in front of the TV? 50/50
  • Coffee or tea? Tea.
  • Winter or Summer? Summer
  • Marmite – Love/Hate? Love
  • Invisibility or Flying? Flying