Meet The Team

Peter Allen

Joint Managing Director


I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in 2012, and over the years I’ve grown alongside the business, gaining experience across many areas of the company.


In April 2026, I became Joint Managing Director following a successful owner buyout alongside Daniel Ashton-Smith. Having been part of the business for many years, I’m proud to now help lead Cornwall Vacuum Services into its next chapter while maintaining the high standards and trusted service our customers rely on.


My role covers a wide range of responsibilities, including demonstrating equipment, servicing and repairing machines, and building strong relationships with our customers. Having worked across both the technical and customer-facing sides of the business, I take pride in understanding our customers’ needs and helping them find the right solutions.


Outside of work, I’m kept busy by my wife and our two children, Jack and Beatrice. When I do get some spare time, I enjoy cooking and unwinding with a few hours on the Xbox.

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Daniel Ashton-Smith

Joint Managing Director

I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in April 2019, bringing with me over 20 years’ experience in parts, service, and warranty within the motor industry.

In April 2026, I became Joint Managing Director following a successful owner buyout alongside Peter Allen. Since joining CVS, I’ve enjoyed applying my industry experience to support both the business and our customers, helping to ensure we deliver a reliable and efficient service.



My role focuses on service operations, parts, and customer support, ensuring our customers receive the right solutions and ongoing support to keep their equipment running effectively.


Outside of work, I’m a keen restorer of Volkswagen vehicles and their parts when I’m not being kept busy by my two young sons or playing for the local pub darts team.

Rachel Gilbert

Accounts Manager

I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in May 2008 and have become a long-standing member of the team.


My role involves managing customer invoicing as well as overseeing the sales and purchase ledgers, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently behind the scenes.


Outside of work, I’m kept busy looking after our horses and a small flock of pet sheep.

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Michele Eyre

Customer Service Administrator

I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in March 2023 as part of the service department.


My role involves booking machine servicing, handling customer enquiries, coordinating with the service team, and ensuring all service requests are managed efficiently. I take pride in providing excellent support and helping to ensure a smooth experience for our customers.


Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and going for walks.

Charley Penny

Service Engineer

I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in March 2022, having previously trained as a mechanic before working in the hospitality industry.


My role involves servicing and repairing equipment while continuing to develop my engineering skills as part of the CVS team.



Outside of work, I’m a keen motorsport enthusiast and spend much of my time taking part in events at the weekends.

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Paul Pridham

Sevice Engineer


I joined Cornwall Vacuum Services in May 2025, following my studies in Mechanical Engineering at City College Plymouth, where I completed both BTEC and NVQ qualifications.


Since then, I’ve gained experience across a range of engineering and mechanical roles, including running my own car performance parts business for 10 years. This has given me a strong understanding of the importance of customer service and reliable support.


Outside of work, I enjoy motorsport, gaming, and playing darts.

Kevin & Mandy Cocks

Founders

Kevin and Mandy Cocks founded Cornwall Vacuum Services in 1991, building the business from a small franchise into the well-established company it is today.



After 35 years, they made the decision to retire in April 2026, leaving behind a strong legacy of dedication, hard work, and long-standing customer relationships.


During their time with the business, they worked with many fantastic people and built lasting friendships along the way. Their contribution to Cornwall Vacuum Services has been invaluable, and their impact continues to shape the business today.

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