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About
ABOUT US
We are expert
Structural Steel Specialists.
Butterfield of Skipton are a reliable and reputable company that takes great pride in their work. With decades of experience in structural steel manufacturing and installations, Zac and his team have gathered an extremely knowledgeable set of skills in all aspects of the industry over the years. We thrive on excellence and customer satisfaction, which makes us perfect candidates for your structural steel projects.
Read on to find out more about our history and out timeline since 1965.
Established in 1965
Fast, prompt turnaround
Competitive Pricing
Happy Customers
Installations
[email protected]
01535 606794
OUR HISTORY
THE HISTORY OF
BUTTERFIELD OF SKIPTON
Butterfield of Skipton (BOS) has a rich and proud history that reflects the spirit of hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of family. Founded in 1965 by James and Cynthia Butterfield, the company began as a family-run petrol station on the outskirts of Skipton. With the aim of serving the local community, the station quickly became known for its excellent service and commitment to quality.
As the company grew, so did its ambition. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Butterfields expanded their offerings to include machinery removals and installations, laying the foundation for what would become a versatile and diverse business. It wasn’t long before the company gained a reputation for its reliable and high-quality services in heavy haulage, as well as its ability to tackle complex logistical challenges. James and Cynthia’s vision was clear: they wanted to build a business that didn’t just succeed but thrived, not just in the local community but in the wider industrial world.
In the early 1990s, BOS made another pivotal move, acquiring Tower Auto Electricals in Skipton. This acquisition helped to further cement the company’s position in the local area and offered a base for the family while the auto electrical business continued to run. But it was in the early 2000s when the company’s direction shifted significantly. BOS purchased a yard, workshop, and offices on Thwaites Lane in Keighley, which were initially used for storage of machinery and plant equipment. However, as the business evolved and its focus moved toward structural steel fabrication, this site became the main fabrication workshop. In time, this would also become the headquarters of the company, signalling a new chapter in BOS’s story.
The turning point came in 2010 when Zac Butterfield, having grown up immersed in the business, formally joined BOS. Zac had already gained valuable experience through an apprenticeship in welding at Multiform and was eager to put his skills to work at the family business. Under his leadership, BOS pivoted to focus on structural steel fabrication and installation, a move that would redefine the company and expand its capabilities. This change was driven by Zac’s commitment to innovation and quality, which helped position the business as a leader in the industry.
In 2012, Chris Fell and Tom Booker joined BOS as general operatives. Chris, with his expertise and leadership, is now the Structural Steel Workshop Manager, overseeing all aspects of the steel fabrication process. Tom, who brought his strong work ethic to the team, is now the main Site Supervisor, ensuring all projects run smoothly on-site.
In 2019, Della Jones joined the team as the Office Manager, bringing her wealth of experience to help streamline operations and ensure the smooth running of the office.
Della’s role has been crucial in supporting the growing demands of the business and maintaining the efficient day-to-day operations. Additionally, Elliott Halstead joined as the Workshop Manager for the stainless steel and architectural steel workshops, further expanding BOS’s capabilities.
Today, BOS is home to around 30 skilled professionals, including fabricators, welders, site installers, and office staff. Zac runs the day-to-day operations of the company with a focus on maintaining the family values that have always been at its core, while his father, Alan, provides counsel and guidance based on his many years of experience. The company’s expansion into structural steel, stainless steel, and bespoke architectural metalwork has allowed it to serve a diverse range of industries, from large corporations like Morrisons Supermarkets and Cranswick PLC, to smaller, one-off jobs for individual domestic customers.
One of the most defining aspects of BOS’s success has been its ability to build strong, long-term relationships with its customers. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and we treat them as part of the Butterfield family. Once a customer experiences the quality of our work and the reliability of our service, they tend to stick with us. This loyalty is a testament to the trust we have built over time, and it is something we take immense pride in. We believe in working closely with each customer, big or small, and providing personalized, high-quality solutions that meet their specific needs.
Our journey has not always been easy, but it has been shaped by a commitment to the values that James and Cynthia Butterfield instilled in the company from the very beginning: integrity, hard work, quality craftsmanship, and above all, a dedication to people—whether it’s our customers, our staff, or our community. These values have guided us through every challenge, and as we look to the future, they remain at the heart of everything we do.
At BOS, we are proud of where we’ve come from, and we are excited for what lies ahead. Our mission is simple: to continue delivering the highest quality steel fabrication and installation services, to nurture strong relationships with our clients, and to uphold the values that have made us the trusted name we are today.
The next few years saw BOS grow further with strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of a local stainless steel fabrication business in 2018 and a bespoke architectural steel company in 2019. These acquisitions brought in skilled staff, such as Richard Greenhalgh, who now serves as the company’s main draftsman, and Richard Dudman, a former director with decades of experience, who is now the lead estimator. With these acquisitions, BOS not only diversified its services but also solidified its expertise in stainless steel and architectural metalwork, adding a unique dimension to the company’s offering.
TIMELINE
1965 to
the present day
Founded
1965
Butterfield of Skipton (BOS) was founded by James and Cynthia Butterfield as a family-run petrol station.
BOS Expansion
Late 1960s–1970s
BOS expanded into machinery removals and installations, marking the start of heavy haulage services.
Acquired Tower Auto Electricals
EARLY 1990S
BOS acquired Tower Auto Electricals, further strengthening its position in Skipton.
MOVED TO THWAITES LANE
EARLY 2000s
BOS purchased a yard, workshop, and offices on Thwaites Lane in Keighley, which became the main fabrication workshop.
Zac Butterfield officially joinS BOS
2010
Zac Butterfield officially joined BOS, and the company shifted its focus to structural steel fabrication and installation.
CHRIS & TOM JOIN THE TEAM
2012
Chris Fell and Tom Booker joined BOS as general operatives. Chris is now the Structural Steel Workshop Manager, and Tom is now the main Site Supervisor.
Acquired a local stainless steel fabrication business
2018
BOS acquired a local stainless steel fabrication business, expanding its expertise in that field.
Purchased bespoke architectural steel company
2019
BOS aquired a bespoke architectural steel company, bringing skilled staff, including Richard Greenhalgh (Main Draftsman), Richard Dudman (Lead Estimator), Elliott Halstead (Workshop Manager for stainless steel and architectural steel), and Della Jones (Office Manager).
Serving a diverse range of industries
PRESENT DAY
BOS employs around 30 skilled professionals and serves a diverse range of industries, continuing to uphold its values of quality craftsmanship, integrity, and dedication to both customers and employees.
BS EN 1090 Accreditation –
Quality You Can Trust.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OUR CUSTOMERS
✅ Guaranteed Quality & Compliance

All our steel components meet strict UK and European standards for safety, reliability, and performance.
✅ Legal Assurance
Our compliance with UKCA and CE Marking ensures our structural steel is legally approved for use in construction projects.
✅ Confidence in Workmanship
Our fabrication processes follow rigorous quality control measures, ensuring precision and consistency in every project.
✅ Market Access
Customers can use BOS steel products in projects across the UK and Europe without regulatory concerns.
✅ Reduced Risk

Working with an accredited company minimizes the risk of non-compliant materials, potential structural failures, and legal complications.
By choosing BOS, you are partnering with a company that delivers certified, high-quality structural steel, ensuring your project meets all necessary industry standards.
TEAM
Meet the
Butterfield of Skipton team.
Alan Butterfield
FOUNDER
The company was founded in 1965, with Alan Butterfield involved from the start.
Zac Butterfield
DIRECTOR
Zac Butterfield, who started his apprenticeship in 2002, joined the family business in 2010.
Richard Dudman
MAIN ESTIMATOR
Richard Dudman, our main estimator, joined BOS in 2019 after running his own fabrication company and has over 40 years of experience.
Tom Booker
SITE SUPERVISOR
Tom Booker, who joined BOS in 2012 as a general operative, now serves as our site supervisor and has over 10 years of experience.
Chris Fell
WORKSHOP SUPERVISOR
Chris Fell, who joined BOS in 2012 as a general operative, now serves as our structural steel workshop supervisor and site, has over 10 years of experience.
Elliot Halstead
FABRICATION SUPERVISOR
Elliott Halstead, our stainless-steel fabrication and architectural steel supervisor, joined BOS in 2019 with over 15 years of industry experience.
Richard Greenhalgh
DRAUGHTSMAN
Richard Greenhalgh, our draftsman, has over 10 years of experience in his role and previously worked in various other roles within the industry.
Della Jones
CUSTOMER SERVICES
Della Jones is our dedicated Customer Service expert. With a passion for helping others, Della ensures that every client receives the best possible support and attention.