In 1968, Alan Halcrow BEM was a pioneer in the drainage industry, bringing over the technology from North America and starting Clear Drains as one of the first commercial drainage businesses in the UK. Keeping drain cleaning at the core of the business he has changed and developed Clear Drains over the years embracing drainage and information technology as it came along. He is unbelievably positive and optimistic, he sees the good in others, has a strong commercial sense and is friendly and approachable.

Now well into his eighties he is still very much involved as he loves the business and the industry and truly has committed a lifetime to drainage, hard work, determination, and sincerity. His genuine commitment to employee welfare, local employment and environmental sustainability is commendable and is some of the reasons why he recently won the National Association of Drainage Contractors Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 2026, as part of the Kings Birthday Honours, Alan was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the Drainage Industry.