Solid union men!

Published: 27 May 2010

THEY’VE not only been in the construction industry for more than half their lives, they’ve also been members of a trade union for half a century – and all have now been honoured for their service.

Camden Town-born Vic Heath, a retired scaffolder, and Jim Ward, a retired carpenter, were presented with a badge and plate at the Irish Centre in Camden Square last Monday to recognise 50 years of membership to the Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (Ucatt).

Ucatt Camden Town branch secretary Ian McDeson said members like Mr Heath and Mr Ward were the “backbone” of the union and had acted as “role models”.

In the early days of the union, it fought for safety on work sites and played a crucial role in ensuring workers were given toilets and washing facilities.