Clive Owen, proprietor of CR Owen Decorative Services in the South Leicestershire village of Countesthorpe, got a great deal more than he bargained for during the gala dinner that marked the end of the 2008 event.  The 61-year old sole trader - a painter and decorator all his working life - was ‘absolutely stunned’ to be invited onto the stage by Crown Paints Chairman Graham Hallworth to receive the keys of a brand new Nissan Primastar 2 litre van.

To show support for the work of the PDA and to help the Association’s membership drive, Crown Trade had donated the new vehicle as the prize in a grand draw for all attending members to enter. When the time came to pick the lucky winner who would be driving the van home the next day, it was Clive Owen’s name that was drawn at random from the hat.

“I’ve been to the PDA conference and gala dinner a few times before and always enjoyed it,” said an elated Clive, “I’d seen all the publicity about Crown Trade giving away the van this year, and it was obviously an added incentive to go again. Although I never thought I had much chance of winning because that sort of thing always happens to somebody else!”

“When the time came for the draw to be made there was a hush in the room and a drum roll… and then I heard my name being announced. I was so shocked to have won, my wife Margaret had to shake my arm and literally push me towards the stage to be presented with the keys. Everyone was clapping and cheering and wanting to shake my hand, even people I didn’t know! It was incredible!”

Graham Hallworth and Crown Paints National Sales Manager John Shrimpton congratulated Clive and then wasted no time in leading him away from the stage to admire his gleaming new vehicle.

Graham Hallworth said: “We donated this van to the PDA because we support the Association’s work and we share many of its aims and objectives. We wanted to do something special this year to help attract new members and to increase attendance at the conference.

“We would have been delighted for whoever had won the van but we’re actually very pleased that it has been won by a sole trader like Clive who has worked hard in this industry all his working life. A brand new vehicle will make a really big difference to a small business like his especially in these difficult economic conditions.”

Although he works alone, Clive now has a ‘company fleet’ of two vans, but not for much longer. “The Crown Trade van is now my pride and joy and is definitely here to stay, “ he said, “I keep admiring it parked outside on my drive and still can’t really believe my luck. Any offers for a trusty ten year old Berlingo anyone?”

-ENDS-

For further information relating to this press release please contact:

Helen Woodward

HJW PR

Tel: 01772 495060

Email: helen@hjwpr.co.uk