One of the big names from the heyday of the AWP machine in Wales, Layton Roberts, died on June 14 after a short illness.
Roberts was one of the main foundations of the rash of machine-making companies that emerged in South Wales in the 1970s.
His company, Swansea Industrial Components, made most of the parts that went into machines. He founded the business in 1964 and remained its managing director right up to his death. The company made wiring harnesses, cable assemblies and looms, principally for the vending and automotive markets, but much of its business in the late 1960s and early 1970s was for the gaming industry.
In more modern times, SIC still had interests in gaming, but had added many other sectors, including medical, switchgear, heating and ventilation, with over 400 customers.
He was 83. His funeral will take place tomorrow, Friday, June 23, at 1pm at St Peter’s Church, Newton, near Swansea, and then at 2.30pm at Margam Crematorium.
Layton Roberts leaves a wife, Carol, and three children, Anthony and daughters Lorna Clayton and Alex Sheehan.
