​In Remembrance

The founder of The MEL Group, Laurence (Larry) Smith, was tragically killed in a landing accident at Luton Airport. Shortly after 6pm radar contact was lost with the aircraft. The aircraft had missed the approach and the pilot had passed out in poor weather conditions. Laurence was a qualified pilot and took over the controls but unfortunately it was too late to recover the aircraft. He had time to tell his son Stephen in the back seat to hang on! The aircraft crashed in to woodland at the side of the runway, killing Laurence and seriously injuring the pilot and Stephen. 

The reason there is such a strong resolve in the company is that these events could not be changed. Larry had an incredibly strong passion for quality and perfection in everything he did. Larry believed that the reasons why things could not be done were just excuses!

Laurence served time in the Royal Air Force, as a Licensed Aircraft Engineer. He saw a niche in the market for a new business based on customer service, quality, design, products and attention to detail. This small business has grown to become The MEL Group. 

Of course behind every successful man there is a stronger woman. Laurence’s wife, Pat Smith continued his dream for many years. Sadly Pat passed away peacefully on the 31st January 2017. They are both finally reunited and looking down on what they both created.

They would be immensely proud of The MEL Group brand. It is now up to everyone to continue in the spirit of what these two wonderful people began way back