Association

28 March 2019

Young technician named the best in the country at trade body awards

A pest technician from Croydon has been named the best in the country at a prestigious industry event for his commitment to training and development.

George Rickwood, of Rokill, was crowned Young Technician of the Year at the British Pest Management Awards, organised by UK trade body the British Pest Control Association (BPCA).

Held at ExCel London, the award ceremony formed part of the BPCA’s esteemed biennial exhibition and conference PestEx, the UK’s pest management show.

Dave Perrett, Operations Manager at Rokill, who nominated the 27-year-old for the award, said: “Since joining Rokill, George has been highly committed to training and development and has always made sure he takes every opportunity to gain CPD points and learn more.

“George has a quiet, professional manner that our customers love and communicates effectively to highlight the work that needs to be done to maintain pest free conditions.

“He has an excellent record of solving difficult pest issues for our customers.”

 George Rickwood of Rokill (centre) with Kevin Higgins, a member of the BPMA’s judging panel (left) and event host, TV wildlife presenter Mike Dilger.

In March 2016, George started working with a major national retailer to deal with their Croydon store’s severe mouse infestation, despite a wide range of treatments put into force by a previous pest control contractor.

Dave added: “They quickly realised that George’s thorough and methodical approach was far more effective than all the previous attempts to achieve control.

“The result was that the store was soon completely clear of mouse activity and that remains the case to this day.”

George - who joined Rokill in 2014 - was at the ceremony to collect his trophy, he said: “I’m over the moon and really humbled to have received the award.

“It was a bit unexpected, but I’ve worked really hard and hard work does pay off.”

Established in 1980, Rokill is one of the country’s leading companies for pest management services to commercial and domestic customers, as well as the public sector. 

MORE INFORMATION

More about Rokil

More about the British Pest Management Awards

More about PestEx 2019

Source: Online

Highlights View all news

24 February 2026

Latest news

SURVEY: Home Office plans to change firearms licensing – tell us how it might impact you

While no new consultation has yet been launched, proposals to align shotgun licensing more closely with rifle controls could have serious implications for pest professionals who rely on shotguns for legitimate, professional use.

Read more

30 October 2025

Latest news

BPCA launch new careers hub, video and Open Doors Charter

Rosina Robson shares how the Association’s new pestcareers.org.uk hub, recruitment film, Open Doors Charter and social media campaign are helping to attract a more diverse, skilled and inspired workforce into pest management.

Read more

07 July 2025

Latest news

BPCA pledges support to Armed Forces Community with covenant commitment

BPCA has proudly signed the Armed Forces Covenant, strengthening its commitment to supporting current and former military personnel and their families.

Read more
Latest View all news

26 February 2026

Latest news

First to be awarded Deer Management Certificate Level 3

Press release: Karolien Van der Vorm has become the first person in the UK to be awarded the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3).

Read more

25 February 2026

Latest news

BASF product pre-launch unveils innovative fly control solution

Pest control manufacturer and BPCA member BASF held a packed product pre-launch event this week, to showcase its latest innovation in fly management. 

Read more

25 February 2026

Latest news

BPCA exhibiting at SOFHT Innovation Day 2026

BPCA will be exhibiting at the Society of Food Hygiene and Technology Innovation Day on Thursday 12 March 2026 at York Biotech Campus Centre.

Read more