About
Our Story
Our story begins with a vision, £46, and a modest bank loan to purchase a second-hand wheel digger. In 1972, Steve and Marilyn Clarke embarked on a journey to build a business rooted in skill, professionalism, and hard work. And thus, S.E.L. Clarke was born.
From humble beginning – Steve operating the machinery and Marilyn managing the office – the company steadily grew. Over the years, the Clarke family expanded alongside the business, and today, the third generation is proud to be part of the legacy. Despite this growth, the company has never wavered from the core values that were instilled in those early days.
Now, over fifty years later, S.E.L. Clarke continues to thrive as a leading force in Civil Engineering Contracting, Demolition and Plant Hire. Still driven by the same dedication, the company remains firmly based in Bideford, North Devon – the place where it all began.
Our Team
Our operations are supported by a dedicated head office team, a skilled workforce of around 30 plant operatives and groundworkers, and a fleet of more than 30 pieces of plant machinery, all backed by a workshop and maintenance crew. S.E.L Clarke runs an ongoing renewal programme, ensuring regular updates to our plant equipment so we can continue to deliver efficient, reliable, and high-impact services.
Our Legacy
At the heart of our company lies a legacy built on hard work, reliability, and a relentless commitment to quality. Since our founding, we’ve played a key role in shaping the foundations – literally and figuratively – of communities and infrastructure across the region.
From humble beginnings, we’ve grown into a trusted name in groundworks, demolition, and plant hire, known for delivering precision and performance on every project. Over the years, our team has worked across residential, commercial, and industrial sites, bringing decades of hands-on experience and a safety-first mindset to every job.
Our demolition services have cleared the way for progress, safely and efficiently dismantling structures while respecting the environment and surrounding communities.
Our groundworks expertise ensures that every project begins on solid ground, with site preparation, drainage, foundations, and more handled with absolute professionalism.
Through our plant hire division, we’ve empowered clients with access to well-maintained, modern machinery that meets the highest standards for performance and compliance. Every machine we offer reflects our core values of reliability, safety, and service.
What sets us apart is not just our equipment or experience – it’s our people. Skilled, dependable, and solution-focused, our team is proud to uphold the legacy of those who laid the groundwork before us.
As we continue to grow, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and delivering results that stand the test of time.
In December 2007, Steve Clarke was honoured with an OBE in recognition of his dedicated work in restoring and preserving the Kathleen and May. As the last surviving British-built wooden-hulled three-masted topsail schooner, the vessel is now celebrated as a National Historic Ship.
Roger brings over 35 years of expertise in civil engineering, groundwork, demolition and plant hire services. With a passion for excellence and a commitment to innovation, Roger has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and establishing a strong reputation in the industry. Roger ensures that every project is executed with precision, keeping the client’s objectives at the forefront while adhering to strict timelines, budgets, and safety standards.
With over 35 years of experience in the construction industry, Graeme has honed a deep understanding of groundworks and site management. Graeme is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of groundworks activities on site. This includes managing subcontractors, liaising with clients and stakeholders, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during the course of the project. Graeme also oversees project documentation, schedules, and financials to ensure smooth project delivery.
Roy brings years of industry experience and a dedicated approach to each demolition project we undertake. Roy is responsible for overseeing the entire demolition process, from initial assessment and contract negotiation to project completion. With an in-depth understanding of safety regulations, environmental standards, and the complexities of large-scale demolitions, Roy ensures that every project is completed efficiently, on time, and within budget.
