1st Class IT support services for your business ...
Meet the Super Heroes
Russell Messem
Managing Director
Russell was born in Portsmouth and went to the University of Portsmouth to study Computer Engineering. After getting his Degree, he joined an EPOS company, maintaining the on-site equipment.
After 2 years, Russell’s Wife, a teacher, spoke to a colleague at her School about their husband's desire to start a new IT company, as they had started a family and wanted to move away from being self-employed.
The birth of 1st Computer Services
Steve and Russell created 1st Computer Services initially as employees, but it wouldn’t be long before Russell became a Director.
1st Computer Services has many ups and downs due to the economy/Covid etc
In 2025, Steve decides it's time to move on, and Russell steps up and becomes Managing Director.
About 1st Computer Services
From Portsmouth Roots to IT Leadership
Born and raised in Portsmouth, Russell's journey into technology began early, leading him to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering at the University of Portsmouth. Upon graduation, he immediately applied his skills, joining an EPOS company where he spent two years diligently maintaining on-site equipment.
However, a desire for a new challenge, coupled with the responsibilities of a growing family, sparked Russell's ambition to forge his own path. A serendipitous conversation between his wife, a teacher, and her colleague at school revealed a shared aspiration: the colleague's husband, Steve, also harboured a similar dream of building a new IT company, seeking a move away from self-employment.
The Birth of 1st C.S.
This pivotal connection led to the creation of 1st Computer Services, with Steve and Russell at the helm. Initially, Russell joined as an employee, but it wasn't long before his dedication and vision saw him step into a directorial role
The Journey ...
Like any business, 1st Computer Services has navigated its share of challenges. The company has weathered various economic shifts and significant global events, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, experiencing both ups and downs along the way.
A New Chapter in 2025
Fast forward to 2025: with Steve deciding to embark on a new chapter, Russell has naturally stepped up to assume the role of Managing Director. He's now poised to lead 1st Computer Services into its next phase, building on the foundations of resilience and dedicated service.

THE TEAM
Meet our Super Heroes
Brad Collyer
Joined the team in December 2018, bringing his experience from a previous IT support role. Since then, Brad has continuously expanded his knowledge and expertise, most recently achieving his Microsoft 365 accreditation. Brad's dynamic thinking, combined with a meticulous and detailed analytical approach, enables him to identify patterns in data, diagnose complex network problems, and optimise systems.
Ian Richardson
Joined during the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing a strong technical background in telecommunications. Since his arrival, Ian has spearheaded our telecoms initiatives, including the implementation of 3CX and providing support to our clients in Kent. He is dedicated to maintaining high standards of customer service and ensures the team consistently meets these expectations.
Brad Smith
Joined in February 2016, transitioning from a customer service role. Initially brought on as an administrator, Brad has since evolved into a versatile IT support technician, administrator, and specialist in sales and networking. He is always ready to assist and enjoys interacting with clients in person.
We have you
Covered
Our HQ is in Fareham, Hampshire with satellite locations and engineers in Kent & Coventry. The 1st Computer Services team are well placed to support companies over a large geographical area.
If you need IT support in Hampshire, Kent, Sussex and surrounding areas, then please do get in touch and we would be delighted to talk to you about your requirements.
Interested in our services? We’re here to help!
We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. Let us know what you want and we’ll do our best to help.
