EC Alderwick, established in 1945 by Ewart Alderwick, is Bristol’s leading independent family funeral director, with nine popular branches throughout the city. EC Alderwick is now run by Ewart’s grandson Philip Alderwick and grandson-in-law Derek Gunningham, both of whom are Directors, and their sons and daughters, who represent the fourth generation of the Alderwick family working in the business.
The firm is known for its high service standards and the stunning and recognisable fleet of burgundy (ruby-black metallic) ceremonial vehicles they have been running since the 1990s. The current fleet includes a Pilato Superstella, one of the first Pilato vehicles in the country, a Polaris hearse, several Superior removal vehicles and two recently delivered Lyra limousines, all from Superior UK Automotive Ltd, who have supplied fleet vehicles to EC Alderwick for the past 30 years.
Andrew Gunningham, who is Director Derek Gunningham’s son and Marketing Manager at E C Alderwick, explains why Superior UK is always their first port of call for fleet vehicles.
Andrew commented, “We have been working with Superior UK for decades now, and we remain loyal to them not just because of the stunning Pilato Mercedes vehicles they offer but because of the relationship and friendship we have built with the Smith family over the years.”
Andrew added, “I was only 6 or 7 when I met Peter Smith, founder of Superior, who supplied my father with fleet vehicles, and it’s wonderful that all these years later, with Peter’s son Kevin Smith at the helm as Superior’s MD, we still have a fantastic relationship and are very happy with the support, service and the beautiful vehicles they provide us.”
The latest additions to Alderwick’s Mercedes-Benz fleet are two brand-new Pilato Lyra limousines, delivered personally by Kevin Smith.
Andrew commented, “We decided to remove two of our limousines from service as they did not comply with local clean air zone restrictions. We wanted to replace them with new Lyra limousines – they are stunning vehicles and the craftsmanship inside and out is superb. They arrived ready to go, expertly painted in our ruby-black metallic, and complement our fleet perfectly.”
Kevin Smith added, “It is always such a pleasure to visit the Alderwick team and also a privilege to have provided fleet vehicles for so many years – we hope to continue the relationship for many years to come.”