A masonry business founded in Plymouth by a Budock man more than a century ago has returned home to Cornwall.

Family business Martin and Sons was started in 1909 by William Charles Martin, who was born in Budock, and served his apprenticeship in Penryn under John Gilbert Freeman.

He moved to Devon to open his own company due to greater opportunity for success in the large city of Plymouth.

Great-great grandson Robert Martin took over the running of the business in 1997, and soon added Plymouth Stone to the business, to diversify into the manufacture of natural stone worktops.

As this side of the business grew, it became more obvious that a base in Cornwall was needed and Kernow Stone was started, working from the old Hot Rocks project site at Rosemanowes Quarry.

Neil Carpenter, great-great-great grandson of the founder, is managing the new offshoot. With an honours degree in geology, and over eight years of managerial experience, he is looking to take Kernow Stone forward.

He said: “I’m very proud to now be the fifth generation of the family to be actively involved in the running of the business. “With a focus on using the highest quality stone and a real attention to detail we aim to provide an unrivalled level of service to our customers.”

Robert added: “I’m very pleased that Neil agreed to join the family firm. Being a local lad, he knows the area well, and brings with him a wealth of managerial experience. “In addition, through his studies, Neil has a unique insight into the products we offer, and can offer a truly unmatched level of customer service.”

Kernow Stone offer a vast range of granite and quartz worktops. The showroom at Rosemanowes Quarry, Herniss, is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm and weekends by appointment. Call Neil on 01209 862770 for more information, or visit their website www.kernowstone.co.uk