24.11.2025

LEEA Lifetime award

Chris Towne, chairman of construction and crane rental company Towne Group, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s LEEA Awards in Liverpool.

Towne joined the LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association) board in 2005 and stepped down in November 2025 after 20 years of service. During this period, he held several positions, including vice chairman in 2007, chairman in 2009, and chairman of learning and development from 2020 to 2025.

Towne said: "I am truly honoured to receive this award. It has been a privilege to contribute to the lifting industry over the years, and I am grateful to all colleagues and peers who have supported and worked with me in that time."

Towne Lifting was established in 1948 by Charles Towne to supply essential wire to shipping trawlers during World War II. The third generation family owned business now provides lifting equipment, services and inspections from branches in Newcastle, Hull and Stockton.