John Herbert May built the company from the ashes of the Second World War in 1947. He had worked on important electrical installation contracts at RAF stations, including special electrical work in connection with Fighter Command Underground Headquarters, Air Ministry and Experimental stations to support the war effort and received a glowing reference from Bower Engineering Works (Electrical & General) Ltd., contractors to HM Government when he began his business venture. Approximately 20 employees and a fleet of 5 vans enabled the fledgling company to complete various types of electrical work from new build houses to farms, churches, and shoe factories, etc.

The first shop was in High Street South (opposite Sainsbury’s car park today). A move was made to 48 Harborough Road and then a move to the present premises at 45 Moor Road came in 1958/9.

The warehouse and shop at 45 Moor Road

Michael John May succeeded JH following the untimely death of his father, having previously worked for The Central Electric Company. Michael was the Managing Director for over 50 years, and saw massive changes in technology, regulation and legislation and the general business/operational environment.

When Northern Dairies left premises in Station Road, May’s took it over and run the contracting business from there.

One of the vehicles

Jonathan Michael May succeeded his father as Managing Director in 2007, having completed his apprenticeship in the mid to late 1980s and then progressing from Maintenance Electrician to Head of Engineering Department at Unilever, before a stint commuting to London with Imperial College in South Kensington co-ordinating construction projects and Facilities Management contracts. In 2007 employees included 2 JIB Registered Technicians, one with 23 years’ service, and the other with 21; 3 Electricians and two 2^nd year apprentices.

Under Jonathan's leadership, the Company again started to expand, and continues a sustainable/organic growth. Jonathan represents the third generation of family ownership, the fourth generation is now in place.

The business remains a true "Family Firm" being owned and operated by two generations of husband and w ife teams, and a cousin and a brother-in-law of the current M.D. helping to populate the workforce! Michael May and his wife Marilyn concentrate on the Wholesale/Retail shop outlet, whilst Jonathan, ably supported by his wife Angelina, manages the contracting. The long standing service and family ties ensure high levels of trust and autonomy can be afforded to the staff, and consequently, work in confidential locations has never been an issue.

Today the focus is on building partnerships with long-standing customers and seeking new clients who recognise Quality, Safety & Value - and have the ability to pay for it!

They provide a service to the Domestic, Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural, Medical, Educational and Local Authority sectors.