Contego was founded in early 2004 by our Managing Director Michael Taylor. The then 18-year-old entrepreneur began his career working as an animal trainer on feature films including the Harry Potter series. 

He set up MT Avian Control, as the business was called then, in his native North East England. He received help and support from the Prince’s Trust, and his company had the honour of being the 700th business to be assisted by the Trust in County Durham. The Prince’s Trust provided Michael with a £1500 business loan, a £500 grant, and the services of volunteer business mentor Alan Sperrin, a self-employed business consultant.

Michael accepted a specially commissioned award to mark the milestone, which was presented to him by the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, Sir Paul Nicholson, at Durham County Hall. 

Sir Paul said "Michael is an example of a young man who has a vision and a hobby. He is combining what he loves doing with setting up a business."

Michael also spoke at the ceremony about his gratitude for the help he received from the Prince’s Trust. "Setting up the business hasn't been difficult thanks to the support I've had from the staff at The Prince's Trust. I'd like to thank them for their help, especially with getting the funding for me." 

Fast forward to 2009 and Michael was nominated in the Young Entrepreneur category at the North East Business awards and was a finalist, which was a fitting recognition of his development and business he was building.

Since those early beginnings, Contego has grown into one of the leading specialist Bird and Pest Control businesses in the UK. We have offices from Aberdeen in the North to London in the South, and a blue-chip client base we are very proud of. Our clients include international brands and we provide pest control services to many businesses including fast food outlets, supermarkets, industrial parks, shopping centres and national stadiums.

“I’m very proud of what we have all achieved at Contego. The commitment, drive, and professionalism shown by the team in reaching our shared goals is what gives us the edge in the marketplace. As a team we will always look to always offer what’s right for the customer; quality service and innovation before cost. Customer service is the key.” – Michael Taylor. Managing Director.

Our brand represents our commitment to you. Contego in Latin means ‘to protect; to shield; to defend.’

Michael Taylor, Managing Director