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Evolution from Local Distributor to Trusted International Partner for High Voltage, Process & Hazardous Area Solutions – Thorne & Derrick Celebrates Local to Global over 40 Years

Thorne & Derrick Celebrates Local to Global over 40 Years

Thorne & Derrick International, a leading distributor of power systems, hazardous area equipment, and process heating solutions, is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year.

Established in 1985 by Victor Thorne and Brian Derrick, the business started trading as Thorne & Derrick from premises in Brislington, Bristol. From the outset, the Company built a strong reputation, representing world-renowned manufacturers such as 3M Electrical, Band-It, and Cembre, supplying their market leading products to critical infrastructure projects and industries.

In 1988 expansion came with the acquisition of Reid Brothers (Glasgow), strengthening the Company’s presence in the strapping and load securing market.

A major milestone came in 1992, when Richard Derrick began operating in the Northeast of England working from a home office in Fenham, Newcastle. Initially Richard focused on selling Electrical Trace Heating solutions from Raychem, but after a move to Gear House in Gateshead, the Northern business expanded into the LV and HV power market. After 23 years, the office relocated to the current Northern headquarters at Lumley Court, Chester-le-Street which is the engine room of the company’s sales and marketing activity today.

In 2015, Reid Brothers was purchased from Thorne & Derrick International, in a management team buyout and is still thriving today.

Meanwhile, after 31 years in Brislington, Bristol, significant business growth forced a relocation in 2016 to Whitchurch, Bristol, where it continues to operate as the Company’s central warehouse and administration centre, coupled with a very strong Export and UK sales department.

Over four decades, Thorne & Derrick International has grown from its initial team of 6 to over 30 staff and from a first order of just £500 in August 1985, the Company is now on track to deliver over £20 million turnover in the very near future.

From the 1980s onwards, the Company has played an important role in serving the Oil & Gas, Process and Petrochemical sectors, and that has been central to its growth. As these markets continues to change, the business has expanded its product range in support, ensuring continued relevance and service excellence.

“As Managing Director, I’m incredibly proud of the team we’ve built over the years. Our strong focus on investing in young talent through apprenticeships has not only helped shape skilled professionals, but has also fostered a culture of loyalty and dedication,” said Richard Derrick. “It’s rewarding to see so many of our people grow with the Company. Their expertise and commitment are at the heart of our continued success.”

The team of technical sales engineers, sourcing specialists and customer service advisors, deliver a single-source logistics solutions across the UK and internationally, supporting projects in more than 120 countries across five continents, offering rapid delivery and tailored supply strategies.

With global electricity demand predicted to more than double by 2050, Thorne and Derrick International are strengthening and extending their world class supply chain to support grid-scale projects to drive our sustainable energy future towards net zero through renewable energy, digitalisation and decarbonisation of industry.

Thorne & Derrick International are the UK’s leading distributors of High Voltage Power Cable Accessories and Hazardous Area Electrical supporting critical infrastructure across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, petrochemical and process sectors. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial markets.

About Thorne and Derrick International

Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting. Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets.

Dropped Objects & How To Prevent Them

Prevent Dropped Objects

To prevent dropped objects it is recommended to implement a multifaceted approach that includes physical barriers, tool tethering, proper storage, training and regular inspections. This strategy aims to minimize the risk of objects falling from height and causing harm or damage – we welcome your Enquiries for workplace products that prevent dropped objects and mitigate risk to plant and personnel.

By implementing these measures, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of dropped objects and improve the safety of their employees. 

Cable Hooks | Reduce Slips, Trips & Falls from Trailing Cables

The Future of Cable Management – Trends & Innovations

• uploaded by Chris Dodds (Thorne & Derrick) with accreditation to CableSafe.

In the engineering landscape, staying ahead of things is crucial, especially when it comes to cable management. At CableSafe, with operations spanning the Netherlands and the USA, we’re dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions in cable safety, confined space safety, and dropped objects prevention. Let’s delve into the future of cable management, examining emerging trends and exciting innovations shaping the industry.

Efficient cable organization is essential for optimizing workflows and minimizing hazards in industrial settings. Traditional methods often involve cumbersome cable trays and racks, but advancements in cable management solutions are simplifying the process. Products like CableSafe Safety Hooks Extreme and Cable Guards provide simple yet effective solutions for keeping cables organized and secure, reducing clutter and potential safety risks.

Elevated cable management solutions like CableSafe Cable Stands and Cable Bridge further streamline operations by minimizing tripping hazards and facilitating easier access for maintenance personnel. These innovations not only improve electrical safety but also contribute to overall efficiency on the job site.

As technology continues to advance, ensuring cable safety remains a top priority. CableSafe is dedicated to developing robust cable protection systems that mitigate risks and prevent accidents. Whether it’s through innovative cable guards or durable safety hooks, our products are designed to withstand the rigors of industrial environments while keeping workers safe.

Trailing Cable Safety

The Safety Hook Extreme is an advanced specification and high performance version of the standard industrial cable hook manufactured with glass reinforced PBT and is UV stabilized, Flame Retardant (Class: 94V-0, Flame Class Rating 3) and Cold Weather rated.

CableSafe Hooks

Looking ahead, the future of cable safety lies in proactive prevention measures and advanced monitoring technologies. By investing in smart solutions that detect potential hazards before they escalate, companies can minimize downtime and maximize productivity while safeguarding their workforce.

Every industry has its own unique challenges when it comes to cable management. From offshore oil rigs, wind turbines and to manufacturing facilities, CableSafe understands the importance of tailored solutions for elevating trailing cables. Our customizable products are designed to meet the specific needs of diverse industries, from corrosion-resistant materials for marine applications to fire-retardant coatings for high-risk environments.

As we look to the future, CableSafe remains committed to driving innovation and excellence in temporary, permanent and trailing cable management. By embracing emerging trends and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we’re shaping the industry for the better. With our customizable solutions and unwavering dedication to safety, we’re empowering companies to create safer, more efficient workplaces for their employees.

Should you require any further information about improving Electrical & Cable Safety in your workplace, contact Thorne & Derrick.

Further Reading

• Thorne & Derrick Appointed Preferred Supplier of CableSafe Safety Hooks
• Cable Safety Hooks from Cablesafe vs. Traditional Cable Management
• Confined Space Entry Protection by CableSafe®

Ellis Patents Cable Cleats for Major Power Plant Project

21.5.2025

HOLDING POWER by Ellis Patents | 30,000+ Vulcan Cleats and Flexistraps shipped out today under the blazing Yorkshire sun. The cable cleats will provide short-circuit restraint to both 11kV and 33kV Medium Voltage Cable Networks.

This WIN demonstrates the high-value of collaborative, proactive and strategized Manufacturer-Distributor relationships; we look forward to co-creating a Case Study to highlight how together we have worked to secure this achievement and satisfy clients specification and technical application requirements.

The consignment is now to be delivered to SEB International Ltd, the UK’s leading manufacturer of Cable Pulling & Laying Equipment, and consolidated for shipment with a CD500S Cable Drum Trailer (Payload 20,000kgs | Max Drum Width 2400mm), TW5000 Cable Pulling Winch and CP700 Cable Pushing Unit to power-up an accelerated cable laying process.

The £750K project value to Thorne & Derrick demonstrates our ability to manage and deliver upon UK and international major projects from our robust world-class supply-chain.

The High Voltage 132kV Cables will be connected to Grid using GIS Dry-Type Terminations from Nexans while all Medium Voltage 33/11kV switchgear and transformer Connectors are completed using market-leading Euromold and Connex brands from Nexans Power Accessories and Pfisterer.

All Cleats & Cable Accessories supplied by Thorne & Derrick – the purchase contract was managed by Gary Amos (Thorne & Derrick Sales Engineer).

Ellis Patents | HOLDING POWER

Pictured | Carl Cox (Thorne & Derrick Sales Engineer | Rail) with Noman Shabir (Ellis Patents National Sales Manager). The Ellis Patents ranges of PADS Approved Cable Cleats & Tunnel Hangers provide advanced material performance for substation, trackside and tunnel applications; this includes the short-circuit restraint and support of LV MV HV power cables.  Please do not hesitate to contact Thorne & Derrick should you require further info, Lunch n Learn, CPD or Joint Visit to discuss your next cable cleat project requirements.

Ellis Patents Emperor Cable Cleats | Single & Trefoil | cable cleats designed, developed, tested and manufactured by Ellis from the Emperor range in accordance with IEC 61914 suitable for single, trefoil and Quad cable configurations

Ellis Patents Centaur Cable Saddles | the Ellis Centaur cable cleat has been designed, developed, tested and manufactured in accordance with IEC 61914 (Cable Cleats for Electrical Installations). The cable saddles are designed to support High Voltage Power Cables with diameters from 100mm to 162mm. Centaur consists of an extruded and pressed aluminium saddle and a hinged aluminium over strap.

Ellis Patents Aluminium Cable Cleats | the Ellis 2A two hole cable clamps have been designed, developed, tested and manufactured in accordance with IEC 61914 (Cable Cleats for Electrical Installations). The cable clamps are available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit single cables – the clamp can be epoxy coated for use in harsh environments, such as sea air conditions.

Ellis Patents Vulcan Cable Cleats | the Vulcan cleats are available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit single and trefoil cable formations (also available in Quad formation). The frame of the cleat is manufactured from corrosion-resistant 316L grade stainless steel, the cable is supported by a liner manufactured from a low smoke zero halogen (LSOH) material.

Ellis Patents Colossus Cable Cleats | The Colossus cleat is available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit LV MV HV cables in trefoil formation. The frame of the cleat is manufactured from grade 316L stainless steel, and the body of the cable cleat is manufactured from a low smoke and zero halogen (LSOH) material.

Ellis Patents Trident Cable Cleats | cable cleat is available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit LV MV HV cables in trefoil formation. The cleat is manufactured as standard in LSF which is PFAS and halogen free, flame retardant and suitable for outdoor applications.

Further Reading 

• Ellis Patents Extend Vulcan+ Cable Cleat Range To Accommodate Smaller Cables
• Polymer Cable Cleats | Holding Power with Ellis Patents
• Cable Cleats | A Device For Short Circuit Protection | CPD Course By Ellis Patents

Cold Shrink Glands for MV HV Cables

How to Install SPS 180 & SPS 193 Cold Shrink Cable Glands

To suit 3 Core SWA Armoured XLPE Cables, 3.6kV (3.3kV) to 36kV (33kV)

Reference Numbers: SPS 180(CS) and SPS 193(CS)

In this Post, we present a step-by-step installation guide for the SPS 180(CS) and SPS 193(CS) Cold Shrink ‘Bolt-On’ Type Cable Glands. These “top-hat” glands are designed to connect and gland 3-core armoured XLPE cables from 3.6kV to 36kV, providing a reliable and easy-to-install solution for Cold Shrink termination and are distributed by Thorne & Derrick.

Note:- Fig 1 shows one possible cable gland configuration, in some situations it may be necessary to position the 3 leg heat shrink boot body below the gland plate to gain space within the cable box. If cable is non armoured, additional strain may be put on the heat shrink tube to ensure cable is supported by cable cleats to provide additional strain relief.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Cable Preparation

• Before opening up the armour wires, ensure the cold shrink tubes and the two worm drive clamps are in position.

2. Armour Wires

• Open up the wire armours as shown in Fig 2.

3. Cable Gland Body

• Slide the metal cable gland body over the cable.

  Note: The cable gland body itself can, in most cases, be positioned after completing the cable termination.

  For Steel Tape Armoured Cable:
  Prepare to the same dimensions shown in Fig 1 and follow section 7 (see below).

  Configuration Tip:
  Fig 1 shows one possible configuration. In some cases, you may need to position the 3-leg boot body below the gland plate to gain space within the cable box.

  Non-Armoured Cable Warning:
  Additional strain may be placed on the shrink tube. Ensure the cable is supported by cable cleats to provide strain relief.

4. Final Connections

• Complete the final connections of the cable termination before bolting the cable gland body in place.

5. Bend Armour Back

• Bend the armours back over the cable gland body.

6. Clamping

• Using the worm drive clamps, connect the cable armours and screen earth braids to the cable gland body as shown in Fig 3. Ensure the cable clamps are tight.

7. Cover Edges

• Cover any sharp edges and the clamp buckles with PVC tape.

  If Steel Tape Armoured:
  Unwind the electrical tape below the bottom of the cable gland, re-wrap around the cable gland body, and secure with worm drive clamps.

8. Moisture Seal

• To provide a moisture seal, stretch and apply a turn of grey mastic tape around:

  • The top of the metal cable gland body.

  • The outer cable jacket.

This ensures that the cold shrink tube will recover properly onto the tape.

9. Apply Cold Shrink

• Position the cold shrink tube.

• Begin pulling the plastic spiral carefully.

  • Do not pull the spiral straight.

  • Wrap it around the cable to avoid snagging.

10. Secure Ends

• Once fitted, apply the provided black EPR tape at both the top and bottom of the tube.

Figures for Reference

• Fig 1: Base plate and initial configuration

• Fig 2: Wire armour open-up

• Fig 3: Clamp setup with screen earth braid

• Fig 4: Final assembly with cold shrink and sealing tapes

Cable Glands Distributed from Stock by Thorne & Derrick | the 501/453 range of Universal Cable Glands manufactured by Hawke are suitable for the mechanical retention, glanding and termination of LV MV HV Power Cables with steel wire armour, steel wire braid or steel tape armour.

Shrink Polymer Systems heatshrink cable joints and terminations suit all types of MV-HV electrical cables (single or multi-core) with or without armour or lead sheaths – zero halogen and fire resistant cable joints are also available.