An internal announcement seen by the Enquirer confirms that Darlington will leave the business next April.

He joined NG Bailey in 1980 as an apprentice electrician and worked his way through the ranks being appointed engineering MD in 2013.

Darlington said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to NG Bailey for giving me the opportunity to have the most enjoyable and rewarding career.

“I consider myself very fortunate to have served a family-owned business that rightly puts its values and people at the heart of its mission.”

Darlington will be replaced by Group Commercial Director John Kelly from January 1.

Kelly joined NG Bailey in April from Imtech and has previously worked for Laing O’Rourke and Carillion.

He said: “I am delighted to be taking on this new role and excited by the excellent opportunities the business has ahead of it and to be working with the talented engineering teams.”