About
Our Story
Our story begins with an idea, £46, and a small bank loan to buy a second-hand wheel digger. In 1972, Steve and Marilyn Clarke set out to create a business that prides itself on skill, professionalism, and hard work. And with that, S.E.L. Clarke. was established.
The company grew, and so did the Clarke family. Since those early days with Steve behind the machines and Marilyn behind the desk, the company has grown into a large family business. Today, the third generation of Clarkes are working within the business today, keeping the original principles at the heart of everything.
So, after over fifty years of skill, professionalism, and hard work, S.E.L. Clarke are a thriving company specialising in Plant Hire, Civil Engineering Contracting, Demolition and Asbestos Removal. Still driven, and still based in the place where it all began, Bideford, North Devon.
Our Team
We operate with five full time office staff, approximately 30 operatives and ground workers, and over 30 pieces of plant, all supported by a workshop and maintenance crew. S.E.L Clarke operates a renewal programme, updating plant regularly to ensure we offer impactful and reliable services.
Our Legacy
In December 2007, Steve Clarke was awarded an OBE for his work restoring and maintaining the Kathleen and May. It is the last remaining British built wooden hull three masted top sail schooner and is today recognised as a National Historic Ship.
S.E.L. Clarke are also a supporting member of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity Club. Please visit the following web address for information about the charity: www.lighthouseclub.org
Responsible for site management, contract management, procurement, planning of operations and deployment of resources.
Roger joined S.E.L. Clarke in 1990 initially assisting in the maintenance of all the plant. Progressively gaining experience on-site and the qualifications to operate all the plant. This led Roger onto management training whilst obtaining qualifications and the experience to project manage, supervise and plan the company’s day to day operations.
Responsible for office administration, health and safety, accounting, human resources, employee training, contract management and procurement.
Phil undertook a mechanical engineering modern apprenticeship before joining S.E.L. Clarke in 2002 with a HNC in Engineering. Soon after joining the company, Phil obtained the qualifications and experience to operate all the plant. Phil then progressed onto management training whilst obtaining qualifications and the experience to plan the company’s day to day operations.
Responsible for accounting, financial control and office administration.
Marilyn started S.E.L. Clarke alongside her husband the late Steve Clarke OBE in 1972 and continues to be involved within the business today. Marilyn also manages to devote time to volunteering with the Children’s Hospice.
