In Memoriam: Ian McCarthy 15 September 1988 – 30 October 2025

IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS that Roofing Today reports the death of Ian McCarthy, founder and managing director of Yorkshire Heritage Roofing Ltd.

Ian tragically suffered a fall from height while at work.

Ian started his roofing career as an apprentice at Leeds College of Building (LCB) in 2007. Even as an apprentice, Ian showed great promise, winning bronze at the 2010 SkillBuild competition in the roof slating and tiling category.

It was during his time at LCB that Ian got his first roofing job with Leeds-based roofing contractor Pickles Brothers, after Ian’s tutors, Chris Messenger and Terry Chiswell got in touch with them to highlight Ian’s exceptional talent. On seeing his work, Pickles offered Ian a role with the company even before he finished his time at college.

Ian thrived in the training environment, later becoming the youngest roofing instructor at LCB after gaining both his PTLLS and DTLLS teaching qualifications, demonstrating a real zest to impart his knowledge to the next generation of roofers.

This was just the start of Ian’s achievements as he later went on to complete a Level 3 Heritage NVQ and was even awarded the Prince of Wales Master Craftsmen honour by King Charles III. Just earlier this year, Ian also became a member of the Lead Contractors Association.

Passion for Roofing

Ian’s passion for detailed lead working and complex heritage roofing set him apart from other roofers. In 2019, Ian set up his own company, Yorkshire Heritage Roofing, specialising in the restoration of heritage roofs and buildings.

The company offers re-roofing and repair services to listed buildings and period properties throughout Yorkshire and the surrounding counties, including slating, stone slating, clay tiles, lime mortar work and leadwork.

Ian’s in-depth knowledge and experience of all roof types made him a respected figure in the industry, and his commitment to continued professional development for himself and his team meant they were always continuing to learn new methods as well as perfecting the more traditional ways of roofing.

Sadly Missed

Known as a polite, well-mannered gentlemen, Ian was well-liked across the roofing industry by all who were fortunate enough to meet him and he will be sadly very much missed.

Ian tragically passed away on 30 October 2025. Following his death, Ian has heroically helped save or significantly improve the lives of many others through organ donation. Matches were found for his kidneys, liver, pancreas and spleen and it is anticipated that his heart valves will also be used in the very near future.

Ian leaves behind his partner Hannah and two children, Rowan (7) and Clarke (3).

Ian’s cousin, Simon McCarthy, said: “Ian was an absolute all-rounder. A consummate professional within industry, a doting family man who loved nothing more than spending time with Hannah, Rowan and Clarke, and such an inspiration to all who had the privilege to meet him. He played as hard as he worked and was the life and soul of the many times we went away to watch bands play. He was a great guy who will be very sorely missed.”