SPIT and sawdust is a term not many establishments would wish to associate themselves with.

But at a wood specialist, which this month celebrates its 50th anniversary in Hertfordshire, it seems to be an essential requirement for success.

Since 1961, Ternex sawmill and joinery has occupied a picturesque four-acre site in Ayot Green, tucked away beneath the impressive shadow of nearby Brocket Hall.

The land was acquired by one Francis Nevel, who wanted to move his small furniture manufacturing and arts and crafts company out of London.

Much has changed since then – although it seems that just as much has stayed the same.

Now managed by Francis’ son Vince, whose own son, Freddie, now works at the company, Ternex can boast some of the most up-to-date technology in the world of carpentry, but at the same time has retained its values for hand-made craftsmanship.

“My father was running the business up until 1980, then I took over” said Vince, 57.

“Primarily it’s stayed the same, but the mix of work we do has changed. Originally the business was making bits of bespoke furniture, which was sold to shops.

“That market dried up, and we moved into joinery, which is what we focus on today.”

Lewis Tyler, Ternex’s sales and sawmill manager, said: “We can do anything that involves wood.

“The machinery has changed what we’re able to do, but we’ve kept up with the traditional skills.

“We can do anything, from the threshold of a door to a full barn. Anyone can hire us – we don’t discriminate.”

One thing they are particular about, however, is the wood.

Ternex uses oak from France and soft wood from the UK. All of the off-cuts are recycled into bio fuel, while smaller cuts are sent away as firewood.

“People these days are more environmentally conscious,” said Lewis.

“They like to know where its come from and how its made.”

For information, call 01707 324606 or visit www.ternex.co.uk