Our Team
From their roles at the Devon sawmill to their favourite trees, here’s everything you need to know about the UK Hardwoods team.
Tom Bedford
Director
Say hello to Tom, the timber whiz and head honcho of our family business. With an obsession for British hardwoods and a flair for design, he’s the genius behind our colossal glulam structure, crafted from the finest local timber. When you give us a bell, Tom’s cheery voice awaits, ready to chew the cud on all things timber.
Tom’s favourite tree – Chestnut
Polly Bedford
Director
Allow us to introduce you to Polly, the creative mind behind the enchantment at UK Hardwoods. Polly’s meticulous attention to detail seamlessly aligns with her passion for working with splendid raw materials and uncovering exciting opportunities for our mill. With an eternal love affair with interiors, she’s the one for unlocking the secrets of mesmerizing colors and tones for your project. Seeking a sprinkle of expert guidance? Polly is one of our top experts to consult.
Polly’s favourite tree – Sycamore
Ed Williams
Head sawyer
In 2021, we welcomed Ed aboard as our esteemed Head Sawyer, the timber whisperer of our team. With a discerning eye, he carefully examines each tree upon arrival, assigning it a special spot within our operation. You’ll find him in the workshop, skillfully sawing beams, crafting top-notch joinery grade, and assembling flooring packs. Ed’s collaboration with Tom and Polly brings forth extraordinary custom timber creations for our cherished customers.
Ed’s favourite tree – Douglas fir.
Leif Urry-clark
Saw and workshop support
Leif, our talented addition to the team, was warmly recommended by his friend and now fellow workmate, Henry. Fresh off his A-level triumphs in Psychology, Biology, and Sports, Leif brings a diverse skill set to the table. You’ll frequently spot him collaborating with Tom, diligently assisting in the preparation of final orders at our timber storage yard.
Leif’s favourite tree – Redwood
Henry McCarthy
Saw and workshop support
In 2022, we welcomed Henry with open arms, as he sought a workplace that perfectly complemented his deep-rooted love for the great outdoors. With a background in outdoor education from college and his role at the mill, Henry’s days are anything but ordinary. His dynamic presence harmonises with Ed as they join forces on the bottom saw, skilfully transforming trees into boards primed for the drying process.
Henry’s favourite tree – Cedar of Lebanon tree
Natalie Boast
Sales manager
Natalie joined the team in 2023, having been friends with Polly when they both resided in London. She made the leap to the west country in 2022 and has fully emersed herself in countryside life with us here at the mill in Devon.
Nat’s favourite tree- Cherry Blossom
Sugar Bedford
Chief chewer
Meet Sugar, our delightful Red Fox Labrador X Cocker who brings a wagging tail and boundless enthusiasm to our yard. As our official greeter, she showers every customer with tail-wagging welcomes. You’ll frequently find her basking in the cozy comfort of our office’s underfloor heating or joyfully exploring sawdust heaps, her nose sniffing out every interesting scent. With her charming personality and photogenic looks, she often steals the spotlight on our Instagram page.
Sugar’s favourite tree – Oak
