James Thorpe and Son Ltd is a family-owned Manchester-based business, which has been passed down through five generations. 

Founded in 1920 by James Thorpe, the firm started as joiners and undertakers. George Thorpe, James’ son, grew the business which became a limited company in 1953. It expanded to take on maintenance work at the many cotton mills and dye works which populated Manchester in the Fifties.  The company also built several private houses in the area.  

A decade later Harry Heywood – George’s nephew – took over the business and it moved to its current address in Manchester Old Road in 1963.

The undertaking business was discontinued in the 1990s and the company focussed on repair and maintenance of industrial and commercial properties. Clients included famous Manchester names like Boddington’s Brewery, National Coal Board and the Territorial Army.

Harry’s son Ted took over the business in 1990. As the traditional industries declined Ted developed the business further by diversifying into private home building, extensions and leisure refurbishments.

Ted and his two sons Jonathan and Darren now head up the business.  Between them, the trio have 107 years of experience ‘on the tools’!  We now have a team of eight who share our commitment to quality and take pride in continuing a family tradition.

The latest chapter has seen the company involved in high profile heritage restoration projects such as Heaton Hall.