Success stories
Nick Eddleston
I’m very patriotic about British industry.
The Lancastrian Machining Company was established in August 2008 by self-proclaimed ‘bike obsessive’ Nicholas Eddleston. Nick, a 39 year-old dad of one, from Clayton Le Moors, set up LMC after a career making metal machinery for the automotive and aerospace industry.
The engineering firm recently signed a deal with Norton – a legendary name amongst the UK motorcycling fraternity – as one of four preferred suppliers providing parts for a new model of the classic Commando bike.
Why did you want to start your own business?
I’ve been involved with motorbikes all my life and had a keen interest in racing classic motorcycles and making my own parts. I started taking orders from people at the racetrack and decided to open a workshop. It all went on from there.
What was the deciding factor for you?
It was something I always wanted to do. I’ve been involved with motorbikes since I was eight years old. I’m an obsessive. I always did a lot of restoration and I own nine motorbikes. The workshop attracted enough trade that I was able to go ahead set up my own business proper.
How did you get the business off the ground?
Our first specialism was to re-engineer parts for classic scrambling (off road) motorcycles that were unobtainable. I then saw an article in a national engineering publication about Norton teaming up with a machinery supplier. I approached them through a friend, and eventually signed a deal.
Best bits about working for yourself?
Working with Norton has been fantastic. It’s an iconic British company, so I’m really pleased to be doing something for them. I’m very patriotic about British industry and Norton is very specific. They won’t source anything that is from outside of the UK.
What have been the biggest challenges so far?
When I started it was such a big project I was really struggling to stay on top of it all. Sorting out the finances as well as running a business I found very difficult. The help I received was invaluable.
What would you have done differently if you could go back?
It’s probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
How does it feel to be your own boss?
Great. I wanted to work for myself rather than for other people. I get to sail my ship rather than somebody else’s.
Finally, a piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?
I couldn’t have done it without No Limits’ help, that’s a fact. We wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for them.
