WSWT Newsletter, February 2009

Meeting Report Sunday February 1st, 2009

Chairman Ted Hickford opened the meeting with the news that stalwart Charlie Martyn was in hospital. Latest is that he was admitted with a persistent nose bleed, now sorted and back at home none the worse.

Jim Young reported that in following up suggestions from members he has established that after eviction from Wakehurst, we would be welcome at Parham (11th /12th July) and Petworth (2nd – 4th May, and possibly more). He then introduced our demonstrator for the morning, Jennie Starbuck.

Jennie briefly described the way she and husband Chris found wood turning and then got ‘stuck in’. A very carefully prepared ‘Blue Peter’ approach was the secret of a wide ranging, fast moving and light hearted presentation that had something for everyone, and a lot for most of us. Loads of tips – those on the bead turning, decorative inlaying (substitute), the range of patterning possibilities (the easy way) and new gismos stood out – and lots of enthusiasm, too. The circulation of the many props and finished articles also added to our appreciation and education. All in all, a most interesting morning. Thanks to the most important prop Chris (who wasn’t passed around), as well as Jennie and also our cameraman Bill Whittaker who took everything Jennie threw at him on the chin, the body, in the hair, up the nose etc! Well done all.

Next Meeting

Usual time and place, on March 1st and the main item is the split turning competition. While the judging is taking place there will be another competition! Ron Inglis and Mark Hughes, with a bit of help from Ron’s grand daughter Georgia, have gathered together items turned out of about 40 woods which all grow locally. All but a few grow wild, but some more usually found in gardens will be included and marked as such. Your job will be to identify them! Answer sheets will be provided but please bring something to write with! We suggest that members pair up for the test but this is not a requirement. A two bottle prize will be provided for the winners and there are plans for a tie break should this be necessary.
Note: The use of the generic ‘Prunus’ without qualification will be considered as hedge betting…