Preston BMW service engineer receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Last year Harold Bowden, who works at Bowker BMW in Preston, became the first technician in the UK to retain BMW Master Technician status five times in succession.

Harold’s unique achievement was recognised at a presentation by Graeme Grieve, CEO of BMW UK.

Steve Nash CEO Institute of the Motor Industry and motoring celebrity Tiff Needell were also in attendance.

Harold Bowden said: “It was a huge surprise to receive the award. I was very grateful. Especially with it being the first Lifetime Achievement Award for a technician in England.

“I know it takes a bit of effort to keep on top of the new technology. But, it just feels like part of the job to me. There’s such a depth of product knowledge in the team at Bowker. And I’m glad I can play my part.”

“Bowker has invested heavily in my training. I owe a huge thanks to the company and my colleagues for supporting me through the additional training required at great expense. ”

BMW requires all Master Technicians to re-qualify for the accreditation every five years.

And Harold’s fifth master technician award last year - after working in the industry for over 40 years - marked a unique milestone. It was the first time anyone has achieved such a consistent level of product knowledge performance in the country.

Harold is one of only 66 master technicians in England. And, along with colleague Paul Whittaker, Harold is one of two master technicians at Bowker.