A VETERAN oven valet has hit a significant milestone after 20 years in the business.

Adam Penniston, owner of Ovenu Wokingham, became one of the company's first franchisees in 1997.

Two decades later and the 50 year-old has finally cleaned his 10,000th oven.

Averaged out, that is 500 ovens a year or 1.9 ovens each working day. 

Speaking about the accomplishment, Mr Penniston said: "It has been quite the journey and I am delighted to celebrate 20 years with Ovenu, which has afforded me the opportunity to run my own small business.

"I have met many people and clients over the years, as well as made many friends in this time.

"There have been many challenges overcome, including surviving at least two recessions. But I have persevered and plan on enjoying another 20 years in the role."

Mr Penniston's role within Ovenu, which is also headquartered in Wokingham, has developed over the years as he acts as the national training manager for the company too.

It now looks as if the trade will pass down through the generations, with Mr Penniston's son Ryan taking up a franchise in Maidenhead.

Rik Hellewell, Managing Director and Founder of Ovenu, said: “Adam has grown to become one of my closest personal friends and a great business ally, who has been a model Ovenu franchisee. To celebrate 20 years in one role is something of a rarity in today’s age and is a fantastic achievement.

“He has been there pretty much since the start of the company and has contributed massively to our success, particularly in his capacity as training manager for our franchisees. I can’t thank Adam enough for his support over the last 20 years and I would like to wish him all the very best.”

The Ovenu valeting process involves dismantling key components of an oven such as the door, interior panels, fan and shelves and placing them into design-registered tank equipment, which uses safe, non-caustic products to clean the oven parts. The whole process takes around three to four hours and leaves the oven, hob and exterior in immaculate condition.

Mr Penniston added: “I would like to thank Rik for his ongoing support ever since I started out with Ovenu, which has meant a great deal to me and my family, and my customer base as none of this would have been possible without their loyalty and support too.”

Ovenu Wokingham serves homes and businesses throughout the entire Borough of Wokingham, as well as in Finchampstead, Arborfield, Twyford and Wargrave.