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Always Looking for the Next Challenge: Chase Locksmiths
» WE CAUGHT UP WITH SIMON MASON- Newman and one thing is clear, he doesn’ t stand still. At 50, he runs Chase Locksmiths Ltd with a growing team, trains locksmiths across the country on roller shutter doors, and is preparing to open a new shop in Cannock. Simon is always chasing the next shiny thing, some call it“ magpie syndrome”, but for Simon it’ s just who he is.
From Utility Warrants to Unlocking a New Career
I started my journey into locksmithing while working as a Warrant Officer for several utility companies. My job involved issuing warrants and opening doors alongside professional locksmiths. One of those was David Duffty, who worked with me for 12 years. When he was nearing retirement, he said,“ Simon, you’ d make a cracking locksmith. Let me teach you everything I know” and that’ s exactly what he did.
For 12 months, I shadowed David, opening doors, learning on the job, and absorbing the practical side of the trade. He wasn’ t a Master Locksmith, but his knowledge was invaluable. It wasn’ t long before another friend, Dave Tipper, advised me to join the Master Locksmiths Association( MLA). After two years of being hands-on, I took the leap, signed up with the MLA, completed their courses, and became certified.
Building the Team, Becoming the Relief
Even after I qualified, I continued doing utility warrants, but the time came when I wanted more control over my work. So, I built a team which consists of two employees and two subcontractors and shifted my role to more of a relief locksmith and manager. I let the others take on the daily work, while I handle callouts and step in when needed.
We specialise in non-destructive entry, which is an art, and I make sure we stick
to it. The goal was always to stop turning work away, and now, with a reliable team, I can step in and cover jobs such as master locksmithing work when duty calls.
Cracking the Code of Roller Shutters
Most of the jobs I couldn’ t do in the past were due to one thing: roller shutter doors. Commercial buildings often have them, and without the proper training or tools, you’ re out of your depth.
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AUGUST 2025
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