A group of like-minded individuals have formed the Abbotskerswell Repair Workshop in the village of Abbotskerswell.
From the outset our aims have been to set up a local facility that will be available not only for repairing and recycling, but to build a community ‘tool’ library and assist other local groups. We are not working for profit or aiming to take work away from local tradesmen but working for donations so that we can build an ongoing asset for the community.
We had our ‘inaugural’ meeting in the Parish Rooms on 23rd January 2020. Our members consist of ‘hands on’ repairers taking on tasks like, small electrical repairs, upholstery, cane work, garden machinery, musical instrument and bicycle repairs, welding/metalwork, carpentry and more. We also have members with administration and finance skills.
We have been active throughout lockdown and, despite having held only two open days, our volunteers have remained busy and our funds have continued to grow. Our most recent open day was held in the open air in August and was very successful. We raised more than £1,000 from donations of both money and goods to sell, including the sale of a donated mobility scooter and a donated minibus. To date we have raised over £11,000 (updated 15 Dec 2020).
Right from the formation of our group we were aware of the potential of the unused building in Vicarage Road, The Old Chapel. To have the use of a property of that size and in that locality would be perfect as a base for The Repair Workshop. We envisage a central social hub with lots of diverse and interesting activities. We intend to run mini courses for DIY assistance like tool sharpening, cycle and machinery maintenance, wood finishing and other skills.
In partnership with the Parish Council we have come to an understanding with the owners of the building and we now aim to raise the finance necessary to purchase the building on behalf of the local community. Because of the generous support from village residents, we are able to demonstrate to both the local authority and grant providers that we have a viable scheme. In the meantime we continue to repair and recycle garden tools, equipment, furnishings and electrical appliances to raise funds to achieve our goal. In the January 2021 meeting of the Parish Council it was resolved to seek funding for the PC to seek a loan to fund the balance to purchase the Old Chapel and rent it to Abbotskerswell Repair Workshop. This will be finalised at the February 2021 meeting. Here is the formal letter.
If you are willing to offer your skills to the Workshop group or have a treasured item that needs some attention, we would be delighted to hear from you. Contact us at admin@akrepairshop.co.uk
Vernon Stunt
Chairman
VERNON J STUNT
Chairman
Born in Brighton and moved along the south coast to Portsmouth area.
Attended Cowplain comprehensive school and left in 1962 to take up hairdressing. Moved further along the coast to Fareham in 1969 where I still have business interests.
Moved to the village in 2012. We knew the area fairly well as we have two married daughters living in Devon. Over our married life we have had several moves and we have generally bought older properties in need of improvement. D.I.Y. and recycling have always been second nature to me and I have learnt so much about how to plan a task and see it through to completion. Working with wood is my passion and I have a reasonable workshop at home where I take on carpentry projects.
I am thoroughly enjoying being involved in our village repair workshop project, especially working with all the hard working, dedicated, skilled and friendly individuals that collectively are becoming a very strong team.
JOHN WHITEHEAD
Secretary
Born and brought up in Rochdale, Lancashire where I attended a boy’s Grammar School. Never really got on with learning Latin but got on well with woodwork which has stood me in good stead for the rest of my life. Big DIY fan turning my hand to joinery, building, plumbing and electrical (both limited to what we are allowed to do) and even making electric guitars and model railways.
Moved to Devon in 1987 as a photographer and picture editor on the Herald Express when it was an excellent daily newspaper. I have lived in the village for over 30 years at 4 addresses. Fitted a new bathroom, kitchen, fitted bedroom, central heating system and front porch at my first village home. Last time I was on Grange Road the house and porch were still there!
‘Retired’ 10 years ago and became a volunteer at the charity Refurnish on Brunel Road PAT testing and carrying out repairs on small electrical appliances and furniture.
I still take photos in the village usually to be seen in Abbtalk.
TONY JACKSON
Treasurer
I am Tony Jackson and I have lived in Abbotskerswell with my family since 1985.
My practical skills are extremely limited but I have taken on the role of Treasurer as my working life has been spent in accountancy and financial management.
My interests lie in music (I was a founder member of The Abbotskerswell Singers) and sustaining the planet (we have a family allotment and I was a Trustee of the Devon Wildlife Trust for 14 years).
My objective with the Repair Workshop is to make sure that it establishes a sound financial base from which it can operate successfully. The acquisition of a permanent home for the Repair Workshop in Abbotskerswell will ensure the future of the project for generations to come.
DEREK SCARR
Vice Chairman
Born in Yorkshire into a family with a background of Shipbuilding and Engineering, I was fortunate to inherit the “put my hands to anything” skills possessed by both my parents.
Trained in Northampton, I became a Registered Nurse in 1975, moving to Torquay a few years later to take charge of Rosehill Childrens' Hospital, and eventually moving to live in Abbotskerswell in 1985.
After a brief diversion into retail management, I continued my caring career as a manager of Adult Care Services, then, post-retirement, I enjoyed a few years as part-time handyman/gardener at Mallands Residential Home here in Abbotskerswell. Now retired, I have more time for my activities as an “allotmenteer,” musician, a cappella singer and arranger, and formerly but not currently, radio “ham” and sea angler.
I am enthusiastic about all forms of repair / upcycling / recycling activities and hope to remain part of a successful Abbotskerswell Repair Workshop.
