Main Match Sponsor – Hosokawa Micron
This Saturday we welcome Hosokawa Micron to Lightfoot Green as our main match sponsors for the 1st XV game with Stourbridge. Ahead of the game we caught up with Managing Director Iain Crossley to discuss the business but also to get his views on rugby in general. Iain is also the coach of our Senior Colts at the club so we asked him about that too. You can check out the interview further down the page.
Interview with Iain Crossley, Managing Director of Hosokawa Micron
Who are Hosokawa Micron and what services do they offer?
Hosokawa Micron is a problem solving engineering company responding to technical demands, including the best, most efficient, accurate way to mill, mix, dry or contain potentially hazardous powders. Delivering bespoke solutions to process engineering challenges our expertise in powder processing and innovative engineering, enable us to develop tangible advantages for our customers in terms of improved quality, speed to market and productivity.
How long has Hosokawa Micron been a leader in industry?
This year we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our base here in UK and next year Hosokawa Micron Group commemorate 100 years of worldwide engineering innovation. Continued global investment in the latest technology means we have new and exciting developments and services to benefit our customers – such as Remote Equipment Monitoring Solutions. This cloud based, Machine to Machine system utilises specialist analytical software to monitor incoming data from remotely located equipment giving operators a 24/7 watch on their plant, wherever it is. Mobile app technology delivers problem diagnosis and optimised plant operation, in the palm of the hand.
Why are Hosokawa Micron keen to sponsor a 1st XV game?
We believe in showing our Customers, Suppliers and Employees that we value them and their support, and we feel that holding hospitality events at Hoppers gives people an excellent experience, with top quality catering and facilities, in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. A great introduction to Rugby for many people who may not normally experience this wonderful game.
Hosokawa in Japan are also involved in initiatives to promote and develop the game ahead of the World Cup to be held there.
What connections do Hosokawa Micron have to Preston Grasshoppers?
There is a long connection with Hoppers as part of our Company was founded in Bacup as L.E. Stott, and players including Pat and Alex Sanderson have connections to the company. I and my sons James and Niall are members of the Club and have been involved in playing and coaching at the club for a number of years. We have also employed Apprentices from the Preston Area again having been part of the Club.
As Senior Colts coach how has the season been?
This season has been an interesting one, due to the changes in Colts Rugby in the North West, with the introduction of a third age group at Under 18. This has led to many clubs struggling to field sides in the Traditional Senior Colts (U19s) age group. The consequence has been a bit of a disjointed season, with many of the lads progressing earlier than expected to Open Age Rugby. The satisfaction is seeing players progress beyond playing at school and being retained in the sport.
How encouraged are you to see so many youngsters breaking through into senior rugby from the colts?
Every time I am down at the club on a Saturday it is great buzz to see players progress from the Colts Teams into the Senior Teams. It shows that Hoppers have a fantastic structure that allows players to participate in the game starting as children and continuing to Keith “Dad” Brierley’s age!! As well as compete from 1st XV to 6th Team levels. It makes all the coaching effort worthwhile.
How would you rate Englands Six Nations performance, and can England win the World Cup?
I think that this year’s Six Nations is one of the best I can remember, and who could have predicted the games it produced last Saturday, absolutely awesome. I am a great supporter of Stuart Lancaster, and believe in his ability to spot talent and develop it. If Scotland hadn’t lost the ball in their last dash try scoring attempt, who knows what could have been. In terms of their performance I would say encouraging and they have made massive steps forward in terms of their game plan and player options.
In terms of winning the World Cup, there are a lot of factors, peeking at the right time, injuries, luck, self- belief and finally and most importantly discipline. If all of these come together then the final is a possibility.
Finally, what is your prediction for Saturday?
This is a game that Hoppers really have to win. The past record is in Stourbridge’s favour, but the Lads have pulled out some good performances this season as is shown by the number of losing bonus points they have accumulated to date. In a tight game I would give it to Hoppers by 5 points.
We’d like to thank Iain for taking the time to speak to us and we look forward to seeing him, his colleagues, clients and guests on Saturday.
Match Ball Sponsor – Hargreave Hale
Alongside Hosokawa Micron we’re delighted to welcome Hargreave Hale to Lightfoot Green as our Match Ball Sponsor. They sent us the information below to tell us, and you, a bit about themselves.
Our company is one of the North West’s oldest investment management and stockbroking firms, with a history dating back to 1897. Over the years, the company has enjoyed steady growth and now employs over 200 staff with offices located across the North West in Blackpool, Lancaster, and Carlisle as well as London, the Midlands, Yorkshire and North Wales.
Our highly qualified team of investment managers offer a range of solutions and services, with the sole purpose of helping clients achieve their financial goals.
Services include – Investment Management, Share Dealing, Inheritance Tax Portfolios, SIPP Investment Management, ISA Management, Estate and Probate Valuations.
Customers who choose us can expect a dedicated and personable service. Although all investors need to be aware of the risks to their capital and the potential for losses to be incurred, our team carry out diligent research to ensure the investment decisions we make for clients are both informed and opportune.
We hope that Branch Manager Andrew Garstang, his colleagues, clients and guests have a great day with us on Saturday.
