Desmond Eric Chandler (1906 – 1995)

Des Chandler was best known for his role in creating one of Grantham’s best known businesses – D E Chandlers (or Chandlers of Westgate).

Born in Redmile, he went to the village school and later to Melton Mowbray Grammar School.

He helped his father Fred on the farm then began building poultry shes and garages as well as breeding chicks.

He rented land at Orston and with George Geeson, Eric Bellamy and Tom Caunt, built a thriving business both building sheds an a hatchery.

He set up the business with Tom Caunt and Joe Pell in 1935. The three became directors in 1944.

Over the years, the premises was rebuilt and extend right through to Grange Gardens.

As well as selling vital DIY equipment before the national stores began, it took on the Massey-Harris- Ferguson franchise.

He retired from the flourishing business in 1959 when it became managed by the Caunt family.

But he wasn’t idle. He continued developing a hatchery and helped his son in his turkey business.