BBC: "How Britain's oldest builder survived the recession"

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"Nestled in the lovely Kent village of Brasted, just off Rectory Lane, is the headquarters of R Durtnell and Sons. The family-owned-and-run building firm was founded in 1591, making it the oldest building group in the country.

"... John Durtnell, the former chairman who ran the business for 40 years, says that unlike some of his rivals who have gone to the wall, he always put money aside in the good years. Even so, staff have had to take a pay cut of between 10% and 15%."