“As a roller is a ‘must have’ piece of kit for cricket clubs at all levels, I suppose we are in a fortunate position,” says Eddie. “And, of course, they are used at schools, universities and lawn tennis clubs as well.” The company produce two models, in 4ft and 3ft (Junior) widths, and also offer re-power kits to refurbish older models. This consists of a new 9hp Hatz diesel engine, full hydrostatic transmission, power steering and key operated electronic start.
One satisfied recent customer has been Ian Smith, the head groundsman at St. Albans School, who, having purchased a new 4ft model a year ago, sent his fifty year old roller back for an overhaul. “I was really impressed when we got the roller back,” said Ian. “It was rusty and not working when Autoguide came and collected it. They stripped it down, shot blasted it back to bare metal, rebuilt it with the re-power kit, realigning the rear roller at the same time, and repainted it. They have given me back virtually a new roller,
but costing me much less than buying a new one. It’s a real hit with the staff now. I only hope they can give me the same quality makeover when I hit fifty in a couple of year’s time!” Autoguide are aware that, for many clubs, the cost of a new roller is a considerable outlay, so finance and hire options are also offered. “We have to make the process as simple as possible,” explains Eddie. “Grants from county boards and the ECB have certainly helped.”
The company employ twenty- two staff, ten of whom are engineers involved in the manufacture and assembly of the various products. All are highly skilled and the company pride themselves on the longevity of their staff. Most are from neighbouring villages and towns, the longest journey to work being from Salisbury, just twenty-five miles south. The manufacturing facilities
are spread across various old farm buildings, as are the rabbit warren of admin offices. Very little could be called ‘modern’, but everything is functional.
Eddie Charity 45
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