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MEET THE TEAM

Fully-licensed and insured flooring experts
with over 20 years of experience

Richie Armstrong

Director

Richie set up Independent Restoration in December 2014 by himself and with the help of his staff has built it up to where it is now, overseeing most things within the business on a day to day basis but still happy to get his hands dirty when needed. A keen golfer, Richie’s voicemail is set if unavailable to say he is “on a course” which is obviously up to interpretation…..

A season ticket holder at St James Park with Jake, comes with it’s ups and downs but regularly convinces himself that the long awaited trophy drought is coming to an end in the near future……

Jake Armstrong

Cleaning, Fire/Food Technican

Jake joined us in 2021 after his Asian travel plans were cancelled following Covid. Jake is now a BDMA qualified fire and flood technician, and although more than adequate at doing a fantastic job at the damaged properties, his handwriting is like a spider – thank god for digital reports… A keen and decent Sunday morning footballer for Hexhamshire “UTS”, he also enjoys a casual game of golf.

Jakes love of Newcastle and often knows of any NUFC transfers before they become public knowledge, with the many social media sites he is following when he should be working.

The travelling bug hasn’t left Jake and he is due to head of to Asia in the New Year with his girlfriend Liv. We are not sure how long he will be away for, but suspect it may be up to 6 months…. sssshh don’t tell his Mam.

Jill Henderson

Office Manager

Jill is our office manager who does a sterling job at controlling all the administrative duties at IR with reports, accounts, diaries, etc.  clients and customers love Jill, probably because she talks relentlessly to them about all sorts if things when she is on the phone.  Often changing hair colours depending on moods/weather,

Jill loves a Prosecco or 2, however this does make her less “chatty” the next day. Jills cockapoo, Bailey comes to work each day and has officially become our IR Mascot.

David Byerley

Senior Technician

David started with Independent Restoration as a trainee fire and flood technician in 2018 and quickly passed his BDMA technician exam. Within 3 years, David passed his BDMA Senior exam with the highest pass score in the country, which he was then awarded the Dr Barry White – examination excellence award.

David is a valuable member of the team, as we regularly come up against various issues where we don’t know the answer and one of the common things heard in our office is “ask David”. A “Sociable” Golfer, David is also handicap secretary at his local club.

Leanne Jewitt

Cleaning Technician

Leanne has been with us for over 7 years and is our number one, specialised cleaner of fire damaged contents and fixtures/fittings. Her unique attention to detail results in fantastic results and a high success rate, although regularly clearing out B&M of their “Elbow Grease” stock.

A lover of dogs, having her own at home and then being Baileys (Jill office managers dog) foster mam when Jill is in the office.  At work or at home, Leanne regular hits 20,000 steps a day, making her our very own Duracell bunny.

Zak Davidson

Cleaning Technician

Zak joined us nearly a year ago to become our new Carpet and Upholsetry technician, his huge smile and hard work, has helped him fit into our team like he’s been here for years. Cleaning clearly runs in the family as you may recognise Zak from his “Tik Tok/Ant & Dec star” celebrity Dad – Andrew who has is own mobile valeting business.  Zak enjoys dog walking and going to the gym and his favourite meal is Steak and Water…?