News

Four different Bridge Building Kits were delivered to Burgess Hill Academy today. The academy wanted these kits to support their bridge Design and Technology sessions. They were originally made by BH-Shed for Sheddingdean Community School’s STEM Fayres prior to the Covid Pandemic. They were also used during our Shed Loads of Fun event last year. The four different kits show the evolution of bridge design and construction from Roman times to the present day, and are a practical way for students to learn about the principles of bridge engineering.

Frank has completed a tricky repair to the Kity saw. This was needed to replace parts that had been lost. The repair allows the extension table to be used. We intend selling this since it does not have a brake and cannot be used by us. Another shed has already expressed interest in buying the saw and they have some experts that can incorporate a brake. Thanks Frank for the repairs and John for the pics.

The mechanics also needed some work to ensure free movement. Karen and her mother who commissioned the work were very pleased with the result and have asked us to repair another wheel – an Ashford Elizabeth 30″. This will need the involvement of more members to make some missing parts.

We were asked to repair some spinning wheels recently. The first was an Ashford Traveller. Eric did most of the work at home because the surface had been affected by water stains and needed refinishing in a dust free place. The finish is ‘Tru’ oil which was recommended by Frank – he uses it for his instruments and it really looks great doesn’t it.

Both wheels are highly regarded and have a high value in good working order and it is particularly pleasing when we can bring them back to life again.

We get some amazing requests like this one. Of course it’s a bird table! Somehow Eric and David found new skills – perseverence being the main one. Our thanks to Thatcher Nick from Crawley Down for his donation of materials. Sue who commissioned the repair was very pleased with the result and said it felt a bit like a Repair Shop experience. Well it certainly was an emotional experience for David and Eric at times.

Congratulations to Pip on winning our competition for the Taylor Wimpey, Ockley Park Sign in Hassocks. I am sure you agree: a fine, welcoming and fun piece of art for the new estate. Thanks to all the members and their relations that submitted entries – all were excellent.

Our stall at Burgess Hill Community Crafters Market in the Kiln on 7^th September, was a great success. Barry, Richard and Kevin set up a fine display including new watering can flower pots, coasters, turned products, willow work and many other products.  This was our first session at the market since October last year and it was a great effort by the team and our makers to get the products made in time and set up the stall. Takings were up in spite of the poor weather.  A big thanks to the sales team and all the makers for their product contributions.

Our stall was a great success this year with takings the best for years. Thanks to all the members that helped with preparations and running the stall on the day, and to our customers for their purchases and interest.